metallicrich

Metallicrich is a term used in some materials science and industrial contexts to describe materials with a high metal content in their composition. It is not a standardized designation in mainstream metallurgy, but it is used informally to indicate a material whose metal fraction dominates the matrix and any non-metallic additives.

In practice, metallicrich can refer to alloys where metals make up most of the mass, often exceeding 70–80% depending on the definition, as well as naturally occurring ore concentrates with elevated metal densities.

Common characteristics include high density, increased strength and hardness, good thermal and electrical conductivity, and strong wear resistance. However, high metal content can also lead to brittleness, corrosion susceptibility for certain metals, and processing challenges due to melting points and diffusion.

Production and processing: methods include conventional melting and casting, powder metallurgy, and rapid solidification to manage phase formation; for natural metallicrich deposits, extraction involves ore beneficiation and refining.

Applications: components requiring high strength and wear resistance, wear-resistant coatings, cutting tools, aerospace components, energy storage electrodes, catalysts, and dense shielding materials.

Notes: The use of the term metallicrich varies by field and region; the concept is often context-specific rather than a single agreed-upon category. See also high-entropy alloy, metal-rich ore, dense material.