Using fractal structure to describe nickel crystal morphology

Lewis, A E; Roberts, M

Using fractal structure to describe nickel crystal morphology

Journal Article

2003

Journal Title

JOM

Link to Journal

http://www.springer.com/engineering/journal/11837

Publisher

Springer Verlag

Publisher

University of Cape Town

Abstract

The morphology of nickel crystals can be quantified using measurements of fractal structure. In the study described in this article, fractal dimensions of cross sections of 16 nickel samples were determined, and the numerical analysis indicates that the more rugged surfaces are characterized by higher fractal dimensions although the relationship between morphology and fractal dimension is relatively weak. However, the data also show that fractal dimension is a better predictor of morphology than apparent density, which is the measurement currently used. The nickel samples were also subjected to an avalanching disc technique that has the potential to separate out the differences in flow in the different types of nickel powder. The differences in flow between powders were ascribed to the similar gross morphologies of the particles, and the presence of shattered individual particles in the mix.

Reference:

Collections

Journal Articles

Full item page