A simple level set method for solving Stefan problems

A simple level set method for solving Stefan problems is presented. This method can be applied to problems involving dendritic solidification. Our method consists of an implicit finite difference scheme for solving the heat equation and a level set approach for capturing the front between solid and liquid phases of a pure substance. Our method is accurate with respect to some exact solutions of the Stefan problem. Results indicate that this method can handle topology changes and complicated interfacial shapes and that it can numerically simulate many of the physical features of dendritic solidification. (C) 1997 Academic Press.