Real-time and in situ solidification of Al-based alloys investigated by synchrotron radiation: a unique experimental set-up combining radiography and topography techniques

International audienceA unique experimental set-up combining X-ray radiography and topography has been recently developed at the ESRF. It allows direct observation of the solidification microstructure by these two complementary imaging techniques. This combined observation offers new possibilities, in particular for the investigation of strains, stresses and defect formation during directional solidification. In this paper we present in detail the experimental device and selected results obtained for two Al-based alloys: Al–3.5 wt% Ni and β-Al3Mg2. For the first time, we were able to characterize and quantify (by using topography) mechanical phenomena observed by radiography during the growth process