Wetting and evaporation behaviors of molten Mg–Al alloy drops on partially oxidized α-SiC substrates

The wetting and evaporation behaviors of Mg–Al alloys over a full composition range on partially oxidized polycrystalline α-SiC substrates were studied in a flowing Ar atmosphere using an improved sessile drop method. The time dependence of the changes in contact angle and drop geometry was monitored and representative wetting stages were identified. The initial contact angles at 1173 K were 100° for pure Al and 76° for pure Mg, with the maximum value of 106° for the 7.6 mol.% Mg–Al alloy. The interfacial reaction and the evaporation of Mg led to the decrease in the apparent contact angle in the spreading stage and their respective contribution was evaluated. After the pinning of the triple line, the decrease in the contact angle resulted from the diminishing drop volume as a consequence of the Mg evaporation. The effects of Mg concentration on the wetting and evaporation behaviors were discussed. A mechanism for the time-dependent diminishing drop volume was proposed in light of the competition between the Mg evaporation and its diffusion from the drop bulk to the surface. Finally, the interfacial reaction was analyzed based on thermodynamic considerations.

► The wetting in the Mg–Al/SiC system was coupled with reaction and evaporation. ► The effect of the alloy composition on the wettability was investigated. ► Representative wetting stages were identified. ► A mechanism for the time-dependent diminishing in the drop volume was proposed. ► The interfacial reaction was analyzed based on thermodynamic considerations.