A numerical investigation of the effect of thermoelectromagnetic convection (TEMC) on the Bridgman growth of Ge1-xSix

Thermoelectric currents at the growth interface of GeSi during Bridgman growth are shown to promote convection when a low-intensity axial magnetic field is applied. TEMC, typically, is characterized by a meridional flow driven by the rotation of the fluid; meridional convection alters the composition of the melt. and shape of the growth interface substantially. TEMC effect is more important in micro-gravity environment than the terrestrial one, and can be used to control convection during directional solidification of GeSi. Tn this work, we report on the numerical simulation of the effect of TEMC on the growth of GeSi. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.