MECHANICAL-PROPERTIES OF LARGE QUASI-CRYSTALS IN THE AL-CU-LI SYSTEM

Following the report of Dubost et al.1, the synthesis and detailed growth characteristics of the quasicrystalline phase in the Al-Cu-Li system were recently documented2. Here we have grown large (∼3 mm) grains as well as orientated grains of the quasicrystals and have studied their mechanical properties. On account of the quasicrystals being brittle, we have employed successfully an indentation technique3-7, normally used for brittle ceramics, to determine hardness and fracture toughness. Here we report the technique used and the values obtained. © 1987 Nature Publishing Group.