Abstract
The Interdependence model will be briefly reviewed and then applied to two different casting situations. One is the solidification of Mg–Al–Sm alloys to determine the optimum composition for achieving a fine as-cast grain size. Because the size range of the nucleant particles can be measured, the key factors describing the potency of the particle can be calculated providing a more complete description of the grain formation mechanisms operating for this alloy. This approach should be relevant for other Mg–Al–RE alloys. The other casting situation is where the melt of an AM60-AlN nanoparticle composite was treated ultrasonically producing a fine grain size on solidification. The limitations to grain size reduction by nanoparticles are discussed in terms of the Interdependence and Free Growth models.
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