1. Compounds or alloys formed by the combination of two or more metallic elements in fixed proportions, typically exhibiting distinct crystalline structures and properties different from their constituent metals.
Usage: technical; materials science; usually used in plural form

Examples

• Intermetallics are widely used in aerospace applications because of their high strength-to-weight ratios.
• The engineer studied various intermetallics to find materials that could withstand extreme temperatures.
• Nickel-based intermetallics are commonly used in jet engine turbine blades.
• Researchers developed new intermetallics with improved ductility for structural applications.
• The properties of intermetallics depend heavily on their crystal structure and composition.