What are the Properties of Nanocrystalline Metals?
The properties of nanocrystalline metals are significantly distinct from their traditional counterparts. Key properties include:
Mechanical Strength: Nanocrystalline metals typically exhibit increased hardness and strength due to the Hall-Petch effect, which states that smaller grain sizes lead to higher yield strength. Electrical Conductivity: The high density of grain boundaries can scatter electrons, potentially reducing electrical conductivity compared to bulk metals. Thermal Stability: The large surface area to volume ratio in nanocrystalline metals can lead to changes in thermal properties, including reduced thermal conductivity.