Properties of Alloys

An alloy is a mixture consisting of a metal and other trace elements. Atoms of different elements are of different sizes. These different-sized atoms disrupt the regular arrangement of the metal atoms and distort the metallic lattice structure, preventing slip from happening and thus reducing the malleability and ductibility of the metal, accounting for the lower melting and boiling points of alloys. Electrons are also less easily transferred across the metal, reducing the electrical conductivity of alloys.

Alloying makes metals more suited to purposes that require materials to undergo strenuous wear and tear for a long period of time, for example tungsten carbide alloys, which are extremely strong and used mainly for cutting tool bits, and heat- and erosion-resistant parts and coatings.