Sintering of two particles by surface and grain boundary diffusion - a three-dimensional model and a numerical study

We outline a model for the sintering of two particles in 3D by surface and grain boundary diffusion, showing the effect of the joining conditions, usi ng a simple formula for grain boundary diffusion. Using centerwise shifts, we implicitly take account of grain boundary migration. We show that whethe r an evolution will reach an equilibrium state or a quasi-equilibrium state and the kind of equilibrium depends on the joining conditions. The method of lines is used successfully in the computation to exhibit realistic solut ions. The model and the computation could be used to simulate the sintering of a cluster of particles by "patching". (C) 1998 Published by Elsevier Sc ience B.V. All rights reserved.