Author:SM Lee, HJ Jeon, BH Kim, WT Kim, DH Kim

Institute: Department of Metallurgical Engineering, Center for Non-Crystalline Materials, Yonsei University, Seoul 120-749, South Korea; Department of Physics, Jeonju University, Jeonju 360-764, South Korea

Icosahedral quasicrystals are a unique form of matter that exhibits increased symmetry and lack of periodicity, making them interesting for scientific research and industrial applications.

The solidification process in Al–Cu–Fe alloys begins with the formation of intermetallic phases under specific temperature conditions. In the early stages of crystallization, crystals with cubic or hexagonal symmetries are formed, which then transform into icosahedral quasicrystals. Solidification parameters can vary significantly depending on the ratio of components and the cooling rate.                                               

Al–Cu–Fe quasicrystals are characterized by a complex structure, which affects their mechanical and thermal properties. Their resistance to deformation and high strength make them promising for use in various fields, including the creation of new materials.

Thus, understanding the solidification processes and structural features of quasicrystals is of great importance for the development of materials with unique properties and the improvement of existing alloys.