Interdiffusion study in binary gold–tin system

Solid state reactive diffusion in binary Au–Sn system has been studied using the diffusion couple consisting of pure elements Au and Sn annealed in the temperature range of 180–100 °C for 25 h. Interdiffusion zone consists of four intermetallic phases Au5Sn, AuSn, AuSn2, and AuSn4. Activation energy for parabolic growth constant and integrated diffusivity for each phase has been calculated to indicate about the possible mechanism for diffusion controlled growth process. Parabolic growth constant of individual phases has also been compared. Kirkendall marker plane position has been indicated in the interdiffusion zone and furthermore the ratio of intrinsic diffusivities of species has also been determined.