Quasicrystals: A New Class of Structurally Complex Intermetallics

Abstract

Quasicrystals are considered as a new class of intermetallics with the long-range quasiperiodic ordering, and have attracted research interest over the last 3 decades due to their interesting structural complexities, unique physical/mechanical properties, and potentials for applications. Quasicrystals exhibit ultimate complexity with a lack of periodicity in the 3-dimensional space, but give rise to sharp diffraction patterns with rotational symmetry forbidden for periodic crystals. The crystal structure of quasicrystalline intermetallics can be understood in terms of appropriate decoration of 3-dimensional Penrose quasilattice using higher dimensional crystallography. Here, we have reviewed research outcomes in the area of quasicrystals, with an emphasis on the synthesis, structure, stability, as well as properties, and potential applications related to mostly icosahedral quasicrystals and other relevant complex intermetallics. © 2022, Indian Institute of Science.