Scientific results from the materials processing in space program

Abstract

Scientific experiments conducted in a low-gravity environment make it possible to study effects, such as surface tension-driven flows, which are often masked by buoyancy-driven flows. A summary is provided of several early experiments which demonstrate that unwanted convective flows can be effectively suppressed in experiments conducted in orbiting spacecraft. Possible applications of low-G processing are discussed, taking into account Bridgman growth of solid solution alloy-type semiconductors, Bridgman growth of eutectic systems, and float-zone crystal growth. The control of macrosegregation and phase separation in castings is considered, giving attention also to containerless melting and solidification. A description of experiment facilities and opportunities is provided.