Phase Field Simulation of Al-Fe-Mn-Si Quaternary Eutectic Solidification

This study investigates the eutectic equilibrium phases in a multicomponent system through 3-D multi-phase-field simulations. Emphasizing the directional solidification process, the work examines the growth dynamics of intermetallic phase Al${}_{13}$Fe${}_4$, a lamellar structure (FCC-A1), and a quaternary phase beta-AlMnSi from the liquid that is solidified at a specific temperature. The eutectic transformation, described by the four phase reaction L→Al${}_{13}$Fe${}_4$+FCC-A1+beta-AlMnSi, is analyzed to develop a microstructure selection map. This map correlates stable growth modes with initial system composition and lamellar spacing. The results provide detailed insights into the segregation behaviour of alloying elements and their influence on transformation kinetics, enhancing the understanding of eutectic microstructure evolution in complex alloy systems.