Simulation studies on vapor phase condensation of magnesium and computations of nucleation rates using Discrete-Section model

Abstract

Capacity of discrete section models as a reliable tool to analyze and predict the data in particle nucleation and growth experiments has been demonstrated through comparisons of simulated and experimental data. A computer code based on this model is developed and homogenous nucleation of particles and growth is simulated. The results have been benchmarked against the published data on nucleation and growth in iron vapors. The published experimental results of condensation of magnesium vapors through homogenous nucleation are then analyzed using the results of simulations. The predicted values of magnesium vapors super saturation ratio and temperature at the point of nucleation are in excellent agreement with the experimental data. The code is used to compute the particle nucleation rate and computed values are compared with the values predicted by analytical expressions based on different theories. It is demonstrated that the model is able to predict values which are close to experimental values and thus can be used to predict nucleation rate.