An intermetallic (also called an intermetallic compound, intermetallic alloy, ordered intermetallic alloy, and a long-range-ordered alloy) is a type of metallic alloy that forms an ordered solid-state compound between two or more metallic elements. Intermetallics are generally hard and brittle, with good high-temperature mechanical properties.[1][2][3] They can be classified as stoichiometric or nonstoichiometic intermetallic compounds.[1]
Although the term "intermetallic compounds", as it applies to solid phases, has been in use for many years, its introduction was regretted, for example by Hume-Rothery in 1955.[4]
Intermetallic particles often form during solidification of metallic alloys, and can be used as a dispersion strengthening mechanism.[1]
Examples of intermetallics through history include:
German type metal is described as breaking like glass, not bending, softer than copper but more fusible than lead.[11] The chemical formula does not agree with the one above; however, the properties match with an intermetallic compound or an alloy of one.
Examples of intermetallics through history include:
Examples of intermetallics through history include:
German type metal is described a
German type metal is described as breaking like glass, not bending, softer than copper but more fusible than lead.[11] The chemical formula does not agree with the one above; however, the properties match with an intermetallic compound or an alloy of one.