Structure of Metals
DOE-HDBK-1017/1-93
ALLOYS
The important information in this chapter is summarized below.
An alloy is a mixture of two or more materials, at least one of which is a metal.
Alloy microstructures
Solid solutions, where secondary atoms introduced as substitutionals or
interstitials in a crystal lattice.
Crystal with metallic bonds
Composites, where secondary crystals are imbedded in a primary
polycrystalline matrix.
Alloys are usually stronger than pure metals although alloys generally have
reduced electrical and thermal conductivities than pure metals.
The two desirable properties of type 304 stainless steel are corrosion resistance
and high toughness.
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