InSb-InAs alloys prepared by rapid quenching (10(6)-10(8) K/s)

Homogeneous InSb-InAs alloys are prepared by rapid quenching (10(6)-10(8) K /s) from the liquid state. As evidenced by x-ray diffraction studies, rapid quenching prevents liquid-phase segregation, so that solidification procee ds by a diffusionless mechanism. The lattice parameters of the rapidly quen ched alloys are determined. The effects of melt overheating and sample thic kness on the diffusionless solidification process are analyzed. The nonline ar composition dependence of the lattice parameter in the InSb-InAs system is accounted for using the calculated degrees of dissociation of InSb and I nAs along the liquidus line and at 1000 degreesC and the covalent radii of the constituent elements.