Spherical dendritic particles formed in cavitation erosion

Abstract Micro spherical particles were found in a vibrating cavitation erosion experiment. Examination of the spherical particles reveals the dendritic pattern on the surface and the hollow structure of the interior. The surface and interior structures of the particle are also related to the particle’s size. For smaller particle, the dendritic structure is replaced by the fine cell and the interior becomes solid. Such special structures are considered to be the result of particle’s solidification from molten state at a rapid cooling rate, which happens in a special transient environment with transient high temperature and high pressure provided by cavity collapsing. The specific area and surface tension force are the main reasons for the different structures of the particles in different size.