Quasicrystals 2003--Preparation, Properties and Applications

Twenty years after the discovery of a quasicrystalline compound, the field of quasicrystals still raises interest and is continuously evolving. Actually, quasicrystals, as well as related crystals with large unit cells containing up to several hundreds of atoms, display properties different from conventional crystals with small unit cells. These properties present interesting potential for industrial purposes. This volume, the third in a series from MRS, offers the materials community an updated look into the field of quasicrystalline research. For example, a report on electrodeposited Al-Cu-Fe quasicrystals shows great promise for industry. It is also demonstrated that when Al-Cu-Fe quasicrystals are used as catalysis, in particular at high temperatures, such quasicrystals outperform conventional industrial catalysis. A new class of quasicrystal, based on a novel type of local order differing from previously observed Mackay- and Bergman-type quasicrystals, is featured. And a detailed description of layer-by-layer growth of a Cu film on a quasicrystalline surface is also provided. Additional topics include: synthesis and structure; transport properties; electronic properties; mechanical properties; quasicrystals from metallic glasses; surfaces and coatings; and applications and hydrogen storage.Belin-Ferre, Esther is the author of 'Quasicrystals 2003--Preparation, Properties and Applications' with ISBN 9781558997431 and ISBN 1558997431.