Light microscopy, X-ray diffraction analysis and X-ray spectral microanalysis were used to investigate interlayer diffusion in bimetals consisting of niobium base alloy and platinum or palladium. Platinum and palladium coatings 2-3μ thick. Were produced by vacuum vapor deposition on niobium base substrate and then annealed within the range of 1000 to 1700° C. It was found that diffusion interaction resulted in formation of niobium base solid solution and Pd2Nb and Pt2Nb intermetallic compounds. Intermetallic layers were revealed to be diffusion barriers for W, Mo and Zr and prevent these element migration from the substrate.