What are alloys?
Alloys are metallic materials consisting of two or more elements combined in such a way that they cannot be readily separated by physical means. More than 90% of metals used are in the form of alloys. They represent an enormous family of engineering materials that provide a wide range of products with useful properties.
Each alloy is distinct from its components, and the properties of each alloy are distinct. Indeed, the purpose in forming an alloy is to provide a metallic substance with physical, mechanical and/or chemical properties and characteristics that are different from those of its components. Moreover, these properties are influenced by the manner in which the alloy is formed and treated. The physical and chemical properties of an alloy can be modified by heat treatment and mechanical working. In most cases, the alloy is chemically more stable than the component elements, so that alloys are designed for specific resistance to actions such as corrosion, wear, fatigue and temperature. Other alloys are made to impart magnetic or electrical properties, strength, formability, etc.
Examples of the properties of alloys: