Electron transport in liquid metals and alloys

Abstract

This paper deals with a number of selected topics from the field of electric transport properties in liquid metals and alloys. First, some nearly free electron systems are considered; it appears that some problems associated with the properties of liquid Na–Cs alloys and of amalgams are still unsolved. Then, systems exhibiting strong compound formation, particularly alkali–nonalkali alloys with a large electronegativity difference between the components, are reviewed. A qualitative interpretation in terms of chemical-valence rules, based upon our knowledge of the solid state, is given. Next, recently developed theories dealing with transport properties in disordered media are critically discussed. Some models for the interpretation of the alkali – group IV alloys are presented. The basic ideas derived from these models are used also as guidelines for a more qualitative discussion of the alkali – group III and alkali – group V alloy systems.