Shape of a liquid surface and capillary phenomena under reduced or zero gravity

We have studied the capillary properties of a liquid (including molten metals) under reduced or zero gravity: theoretically, by determination of the shape of the liquid surface and the meniscuses by computer integration of the differential equation of capillarity; and experimentally, by modeling weightlessness under terrestrial conditions using small volumes with weak action of the gravitational vector or by creating interfacial boundaries between liquid media of equal density. We have determined the shapes of liquid surfaces and meniscuses in different systems, taking into account the wettability of the solid phases. Based on the data obtained, we have considered the characteristic features of powder metallurgy technology (impregnation, liquid-phase sintering), soldering ceramic and glass under outer-space conditions (microgravity).