Directional Solidification with Constant Ice Front Velocity in the Ice-Templating Process

Abstract

An exponential cooling function for the directional solidification of liquids with constant ice front velocities is investigated with respect to an enhanced control over the ice-templating process. It is mathematically derived and set into relation to other cooling functions found in literature. A theoretical limit of applicability is discussed and a mathematical expression for the maximum sample size realizable with this new approach is derived. Experimental results from the time-resolved direct measurement of the ice front evolution during the directional solidification of pure water and a ceramic β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) suspension in a cooling room environment are presented. These results are compared to the results of numerical simulations. Ice front velocities from 10 to 50 μm s-1 are realized.