Abstract
Sn alloyed separately with Zn, Sb, Bi (all of purity 99.99% and the same percent 8.6 wt.%) was prepared either by normal cast or rapid solidification from the melt. X-ray diffraction patterns, DTA thermographs and Doppler broadening profiles were obtained for all the samples under the same conditions. The measurements of lattice strain, crystallite size, melting point, specific heat, the density of valence (free) electrons and the probability of trapping the free positrons showed deviations from the surface activity theory depending on the alloying element and the method of preparation. The formation of intermetallic compounds highly affects the strength of the alloys. (C) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.