Chan Hung Shek

Abstract When a transformable B2 precipitate is embedded in an amorphous matrix, it is often experimentally observed that the crystalline-amorphous interface not only serves as an initiation site for the martensitic transformation due to local stress concentrations, but also as an inhibitor to stabilize the transformation, the latter being attributed to the “confinement effect” exerted by the amorphous matrix, according to the Eshelby solution.

A series of ternary rare-earth metal aluminum germanides with the general formula REAl Ge (RE = Nd, Sm, Gd, Tb, Dy, and Ho; 0.6 < x < 0.9) have been synthesized by direct fusion of the corresponding elements. Their structures have been characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction and selected area electron diffraction methods.