Atomic-scale surface and interface structural analysis in molten metal by atomic force microscopy

2022 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 20H02619
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (B)
• Allocation Type: Single-year Grants
• Section: 一般
• Review Section: Basic Section 29020:Thin film/surface and interfacial physical properties-related
• Research Institution: Kyoto University
• Principal Investigator: Takashi Ichii 京都大学, 工学研究科, 准教授 (30447908)
• Co-Investigator(Kenkyū-buntansha): 天野 健一 名城大学, 農学部, 准教授 (30634191)
• Project Period (FY): 2020-04-01 – 2023-03-31
• Keywords: 原子間力顕微鏡 / 溶融金属 / 固液界面 / 二体間相互作用

Outline of Final Research Achievements

We have been working on atomic-scale structural analysis of the molten metal/solid interface by atomic force microscopy (AFM) using a quartz tuning fork sensor. In particular, we focused on the alloy crystal growth at the interface between the molten metal and the solid metal. By introducing a temperature control equipment, structural phase transitions of alloy crystals depending on temperature and AFM analysis in molten metal with a melting point higher than room temperature were achieved. In addition, we have worked on the theoretical and experimental aspects of the two-body interaction in molten metals.

Free Research Field

表面科学

Academic Significance and Societal Importance of the Research Achievements

ハンダ付けや溶融金属メッキなど、金属を溶融状態で扱う実用プロセスは多岐にわたる。そのような溶融金属と固体材料とが接する界面における現象は、接合や複合材料生成プロセスなどに強く関連することから、その解明は重要である。本課題では、その界面現象を原子スケールで分析する顕微鏡技術を開発し、それに取り組んだ。