Other attributes
Intermetallic, also known as intermetallic compound, ordered intermetallic alloy, and long-range-ordered-alloy, is a metallic type of 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, and can be classified as stoichiometric or nonstoichiometric intermetallic compounds. Intermetallic composites have their origins in the disciplines of metal matrix composites and orders intermetallic compounds and alloys.
The crystal structures and the properties of intermetallic compounds often differ markedly from those of their constituents. In addition to the normal valences of their components, the sizes of the atoms and ratio of the total number of valence electrons to the number of atoms has important effects on the composition of intermetallic compounds. The structure of the intermetallic matrix is distinguished from the metal matrix of metal matrix composites by the order of the intermetallic compound or a multiphase combination of the intermetallic compound.
An objective for intermetallics is the development of structural aerospace materials for use at elevated temperatures. As well, intermetallics offer a class of alternative materials to establish advanced design in different applications. These include fields other than materials for aerospace, such as engineering, chemical plants, electronics, energy conversion, optic, biomedicine, and commodities. However, intermetallic compounds require further optimization and standardization of gradient microstructures in order to increase the quality and cost of the production process.
Intermetallic compounds are also used to replace the common Sn-Pb solder to offer lead-free solders. In this case, intermetallic compounds have shown high tensile-shear strength and an elongation percentage of around 38% greater than traditional solder joints. Also, in the case of biocompatible compounds, intermetallic compounds have shown good results and good biocompatibility while offering high hardness. These offer optimal traits for orthopedic, dental, and prosthetic applications. However, some compounds are not strong enough for other medical devices unless combined with another biocompatible alloy.
