Top-view approach for in-situ observation of growth morphology in bulk transparent organic alloys

A new experimental method for in-situ observation of microstructure formation in top view during unidirectional solidification of bulk, transparent, organic alloys is presented. This method allows observing growth patterns over an extended interface area with high resolution and minimal optical aberrations. With (D)camphor–neopentylglycol–succinonitrile (DC–NPG–SCN) alloys a series of unidirectional solidification experiments were performed in order to validate the set-up. By means of multi-focus exposition eutectic cells were observed over a depth of several millimeters, followed by 3D reconstruction of their shape. The method also allows capturing the integral interface dynamics and measuring its relative undercooling.

► A new approach for the in-situ observation of 3D structures is proposed.
► The method allows measuring the growth velocity, undercooling and shape of cells.
► The results of validation of the method are presented and discussed.