What is the reason behind the limited miscibility of metals in alloys?

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Creating an alloy with all stable (non-radioactive) metals is theoretically possible but highly impractical due to several factors. Not all metals are miscible, meaning they cannot easily form a homogeneous mixture, particularly when cooled from a liquid state. This immiscibility is influenced by the metals' electronic structures and physical properties, such as density, melting points, and atomic radii. While some metals may mix in liquid form, they often separate upon solidification. Additionally, the vast differences in properties among metals make it challenging to achieve a functional alloy. Although advanced software tools like CALPHAD aid in alloy development, the complexities and proprietary nature of certain mixing processes limit the feasibility of creating such an all-encompassing alloy.
Squall94
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Is it possible to make an alloy with all possible stable (non-radioactive) metals? I've googled around, and I couldn't find one, and also couldn't find a reason why it hasn't been made. If its not possible, what is the reason behind it?
 
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Not all metals are miscible, so there are serious limitations to the alloy composition.

Besides, just because something is possible, doesn't mean there is much sense in doing it.
 
Squall94 said:
Is it possible to make an alloy with all possible stable (non-radioactive) metals? I've googled around, and I couldn't find one, and also couldn't find a reason why it hasn't been made. If its not possible, what is the reason behind it?
It would be possible, but impractical.

In most (if not all) alloy systems, some metals are considered impurities to be limited to ppm or less.

It is impractical because metals have widely different properties related to their electronic structure. Metals have widely varying physical properties, e.g., density, melting/boiling points, strength, etc. Liquid metals would be of little use in high strength alloys.
 
It was mentioned that not all metals are miscible. What is the reason behind this? I read somewhere that in the liquid state they mix, but separate upon being cooled. What causes this? Is it from the density of the metals?
 
Squall94 said:
It was mentioned that not all metals are miscible. What is the reason behind this? I read somewhere that in the liquid state they mix, but separate upon being cooled. What causes this? Is it from the density of the metals?
It is dependent on the electron configuration. The density depends on atomic radius and atomic mass.

http://www.webelements.com/periodicity/atomic_radius/

Elements that do not readily mix can be mixed under special conditions followed by rapid solidification. In general, such processes are proprietary or trade secret.

There are now sophisticated software tools, e.g., CALPHAD, that allow the development and understanding of various compounds and alloys.
 
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