Model for the porosity growth in single-crystal nickel-base superalloys during homogenization

During solidification and homogenization of single-crystal nickel-base superalloys, pores form, which deteriorate the mechanical properties, especially the fatigue lifetime. In this paper an analytical model for the formation of homogenization pores is developed based on the imbalanced cross-diffusion of the alloying elements (Kirkendall–Frenkel effect). The results of the model are compared with experimental data.