NiSb

NiSb, or nickel antimonide, is a binary intermetallic compound with the stoichiometry NiSb. It forms from equimolar amounts of nickel and antimony and is one of several nickel–antimony phases.

Crystal structure and composition: At room temperature NiSb crystallizes in a defined intermetallic structure, commonly described as an orthorhombic CrB-type structure. The 1:1 Ni:Sb ratio characterizes the compound and distinguishes it from other nickel–antimony phases.

Physical properties: NiSb behaves as a narrow-bandgap semiconductor with predominantly p-type electrical conductivity. It exhibits properties typical of intermetallics, including high hardness and brittleness, and it is of interest for its electronic transport characteristics. In the context of thermoelectrics, NiSb has been studied for its Seebeck coefficient and electrical conductivity, as part of broader efforts to optimize thermoelectric performance in nickel–antimony materials.

Synthesis and stability: NiSb can be prepared by high-temperature synthesis methods, such as arc melting of high-purity nickel and antimony followed by annealing to achieve a homogeneous single-phase material. Surface oxidation can occur if the material is exposed to air, so standard handling precautions are used for antimonide compounds.

Applications and research: NiSb has been investigated mainly for thermoelectric applications in the mid-temperature range, as well as as a model system for understanding phase relations and chemistry in the Ni–Sb binary system. Its properties are typically discussed in the context of intermetallic chemistry and functional materials research.