Dependence of the mechanical behavior of alloys on their electron work function—An alternative parameter for materials design

In this article, we demonstrate that the electron work function (EWF) as an intrinsic parameter can provide information or clues in a simple or straightforward way for material design, modification, and development. A higher work function of a material represents a more stable electronic state, whic...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Applied physics letters 2013-12, Vol.103 (26)
Main Authors: Lu, Hao, Hua, Guomin, Li, Dongyang
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
ALLOYS
Applied physics
Copper
Corresponding states
Cupronickel
Dependence
DESIGN
Design modifications
Design parameters
ELECTROCHEMISTRY
Electron states
ELECTRONS
HARDNESS
INTERFACES
MATERIALS
MATERIALS SCIENCE
Mechanical properties
MICROSTRUCTURE
Modulus of elasticity
Nickel
WORK FUNCTIONS
YOUNG MODULUS
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Summary:In this article, we demonstrate that the electron work function (EWF) as an intrinsic parameter can provide information or clues in a simple or straightforward way for material design, modification, and development. A higher work function of a material represents a more stable electronic state, which consequently generates a higher resistance to any attempt of changing the electronic state and other corresponding states, e.g., changes in structure or microstructure caused by mechanical and electrochemical actions. Using Cu-Ni alloy as an example, we demonstrate the correlation between the EWF and Young's modulus of the material as well as its hardness. The properties of a material can be modified using elements with appropriate work functions. This is also applicable for tailoring inter-phase boundaries or interfaces.
ISSN:0003-6951
1077-3118
DOI:10.1063/1.4852675