Homogeneous crystal growth is expected in space, because buoyancy driven convection does not occur under microgravity conditions. In some cases, however, growth melt may possibly be controlled with Marangoni convection owing to the strong effect of surface tension on a free surface, and ideal crystal growth can't be obtained. So, may studies have been made in order to investigate the fundamental characteristics of Marangoni convection. In Japan, we have a study of flow visualization on Marangoni convection already planned in the program of FMPT, and the preliminary studies are being made. In this paper, the effect of surface tension on flow behavior, and examples of space experiments (SL-1, D-1) concerning thermocapillary flow are reviewed. Moreover, the result of the aircraft experiment under low-gravity environment for FMPT, preliminary study of Marangoni convection in FMPT, and theoretical study of a control of Marangoni convection are presented.
抄録全体を表示