Project Summary:

A clear understanding of the mechanisms and kinetics of the melting process is needed for optimization of the existing laser technologies and development of new applications based on laser melting. The work currently being pursued utilizes large-scale molecular dynamics simulations that are aimed at providing a microscopic picture of the melting process at strong overheatings. The area of primary interest at the moment is understanding the interactions between point defects and the possible effects that these might have on the location where the liquid spontaneously nucleates.