Phase-Field Simulation of Sintering Process: A Review

Sintering, a well-established technique in powder metallurgy, plays a critical role in the processing of high melting point materials. A comprehensive understanding of structural changes during the sintering process is essential for effective product assessment. The phase-field method stands out for its unique ability to simulate these structural transformations. Despite its widespread application, there is a notable absence of literature reviews focused on its usage in sintering simulations. Therefore, this paper addresses this gap by reviewing the latest advancements in phase-field sintering models, covering approaches based on energy, grand potential, and entropy increase. The characteristics of various models are extensively discussed, with a specific emphasis on energy-based models incorporating considerations such as interface energy anisotropy, tensor-form diffusion mechanisms, and various forms of rigid particle motion during sintering. Furthermore, the paper offers a concise summary of phase-field sintering models that integrate with other physical fields, including stress/strain fields, viscous flow, temperature field, and external electric fields. In conclusion, the paper provides a succinct overview of the entire content and delineates potential avenues for future research.