Nickel aluminide

Nickel aluminide (Ni3Al) is an intermetallic material.

Also known as IC-221M, this alloy is made up of nickel combined with several other metals including aluminum, chromium, molybdenum, zirconium and boron. Adding boron increases the ductility of the alloy. As well, it increases the hardness.

The alloy is very resistant to heat, and finds use in heat-treating furnaces and other applications where its longer lifespan and reduced corrosion give it an advantage over stainless steel.