Three-dimensional computer modeling of grain growth and pore shrinkage during sintering

This paper deals with modeling of grain growth and pore shrinkage during si ntering. The simulation takes as the theoretical basis the curvature of the grain boundaries and the pore surfaces and their mobilities. The movement of the grain boundaries is calculated for each grain separately using the f lux equation for grain growth j = c(k)(1/r(2)-1/r(1)), c(k) being a rate co nstant, r(1) and r(2) effective radii for each grain boundary. The modifica tion of these boundaries in a micro structure is calculated in two and thre e-dimensional space starting with a Voronoy mosaic at the beginning of sint ering. Two kinds of pores are distinguished: sphere like pores situated bet ween two grains and non spherical pores between at least three grains. The results of several computer runs are shown and discussed. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.