Difference between precipitates, dispersoids and intermetallics

[darkelf]

Hi,

Could anyone please give me a definite difference between precipitates, dispersoids and intermetallics? I would appreciate any references to descriptions and definitions.

Thank you so much

 

[Astronuc]

Intermetallics are stoichiometric constituents in alloys the usually differ structurally from the alloy, and they tend to be precipitates.

Precipitates are simply those components that 'precipitate' during the melting phase.

Generally dispersoids are finely divided particles of one substance dispersed in another, but see the following -

Dispersoids are components that "pin the growing subgrains (recrystallisation nuclei), and consequently leads to an improved recrystallisation resistance. Examples of dispersoid forming elements are manganese, zirconium, scandium and hafnium."
http://www.sintef.no/static/mt/norlight/ProjectPortfolio/HeatTreatmentFundamentals/dispersoids.htm

Materials and Processing Designs for Magnesium Alloys - Grain Refining by Repeated Plastic Working and Solid-State Synthesis of Mg2Si (Review)
http://www.azom.com/details.asp?ArticleID=3011

Tribological Properties of Magnesium Matrix Composite Alloys Dispersed with Mg2Si Particles
http://www.azom.com/details.asp?ArticleID=3059