Interface Sharpening instead of Broadening by Diffusion in Ideal Binary Alloys

Abstract

We demonstrate, using computer simulations based on deterministic kinetic equations and Monte Carlo technique, that during intermixing in an ideal AB system with an initially wide A/B interface-if the diffusion coefficient D strongly depends on concentration-the interface can become sharp on nanoscale. The sharp interface shifts proportionally with time (in contrast to the square root law). Furthermore, it is also shown that at the beginning of the intermixing in a finite bilayer or in multilayers, the diminution of the concentration gradient takes place by filling up one of the initially pure layers (layer B if D is large there) and by the shift of the sharpening interface.