Combining cellular automata and Monte Carlo algorithm to simulate three-dimensional grain growth

A 3-D simulation of grain growth was conducted by utilizing cellular automata （CA） and Monte Carlo （MC） algorithm. In the simulating procedure, the three-dimensional space is divided into a large number of 2-D isometric planes. Then, each of the planes is divided into identical square cells. Finally, the cellular automata and Monte Carlo algorithm are combined together to simulate the grain growth. Through an evolutionary simulation, the recrystallized microstructure, the grain growth rate and the grain size distribution are acceptably predicted. The simulation routine can be used to simulate the real physical-metallurgy processes and to predict quantitative dynamic information of the evolution of microstructure. Further more, the method is also useful for optimization of materials properties by controlling the microstructure evolution.