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Published online by Cambridge University Press: 10 February 2011
This novel approach to modeling the steady-state solidification of undercooled pure liquids is based upon first principles. Continuum equations are used to describe a volumetrically averaged, coexisting mixture of solid and liquid in the thin phase transformation zone between regions of pure liquid and pure solid. These equations are coupled with a dynamic equilibrium based rate law that describes temperature dependent phase transformation kinetics. The time scale associated with finite rate phase transformation is found to depend on a solidification activation energy, thermal energy, and the enthalpy of fusion. The model leads naturally to an eigenvalue problem for the solidification front propagation speed. In addition, the variation of the volumetrically averaged liquid fraction across the solidification zone is predicted.