The effect of the solidification rate on the physical properties of the Sn-Zn eutectic alloy

As-cast Sn-8.8 wt.% Zn eutectic alloy was directionally solidified with a constant temperature gradient (G = 4.16 K/mm) under various solidification rates (V = 8.3–790 μm/s) in a Bridgman-type furnace. The dependence of the microhardness (HV), ultimate tensile strength (σut), ultimate compressive strength (σuc), and compressive yield strength (σcy) on the solidification rate was determined. The temperature dependency of the electrical resistivity (ρ) of the sample was investigated, and the temperature coefficient of the resistivity (α) was calculated from ρ−Τ curve. The specific heat (CP) and the enthalpy (ΔH) were determined by DSC analysis. The thermal conductivity was calculated using the Wiedemann-Franz equation. •The microhardness increases with increasing solidification rate.•The ultimate tensile strength increases with increasing solidification rate.•The compressive strength increases with increasing solidification rate.•The resistivity linearly increases with increasing temperature.•The thermal conductivity decreases with increasing temperature.