Crystal orientation and grain alignment in a hypoeutectic Mn–Sb alloy under high magnetic field conditions

Abstract: Mn–89.7wt.%Sb alloy specimens were solidified in various magnetic fields with different holding times. The influence of the high magnetic field on the orientation of both the primary and eutectic MnSb crystals and on the alignment of the primary MnSb grains in the alloys has been investigated. It was found that the primary MnSb crystals were oriented with their c-plane parallel to the imposed magnetic field direction, but the eutectic MnSb from a eutectic MnSb alloy could not be oriented by the high magnetic field. The primary MnSb dendrites were aligned along the magnetic field direction. This alignment may be attributed to combined effects of crystal orientation, crystal growth feature and heat flow. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]