intermetallics

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Definition of intermetallics in English English dictionary

(Kimya) Intermetallics or intermetallic compounds is a term that is used in a number of different ways. Most commonly it refers to solid state phases involving metals. There is a "research definition" adhered to generally in scientific publications, and a wider "common use" term. There is also a completely different use in coordination chemistry, where it has been used to refer to complexes containing two or more different metals. 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. Note that many intermetallic compounds are often simply called alloys, even though strictly speaking they are not. For example Complex metallic alloys are intermetallic compounds with large unit cells