Ni3V

Ni3V is an intermetallic compound composed of nickel and vanadium with the stoichiometry Ni3V. It forms as a distinct phase in nickel-rich nickel–vanadium alloys and can also be produced by diffusion-controlled ordering in Ni–V systems through appropriate heat treatment.

Crystallographically, Ni3V adopts the L12-type ordered structure, a cubic arrangement derived from the face-centered cubic lattice. In this structure, nickel atoms occupy the face-centered and corner positions, while vanadium atoms preferentially occupy the body-centered site. The ordered arrangement gives rise to properties that differ from those of disordered solid solutions.

In practical terms, Ni3V appears as a precipitate within Ni–V alloys after aging or annealing. It can be formed by alloying nickel with vanadium and subjecting the material to homogenization and aging treatments. The stability and degree of ordering depend on temperature and overall composition.

Property-wise, Ni3V generally exhibits high strength and hardness at elevated temperatures and has a relatively high melting point. It tends toward brittleness at room temperature, with limited ductility, which can constrain some structural applications. Its high-temperature oxidation resistance is context dependent and must be considered alongside other alloy constituents.

Ni3V is studied as part of the broader Ni3X family of intermetallics and serves as a precipitate phase that influences the mechanical performance of Ni–V alloys. As a model intermetallic, it provides insight into ordering, diffusion, and age-hardening phenomena in intermetallic systems. See also Ni3Al and Ni3Nb for related compounds.