Structure and stability of γ-AuZn: a γ-brass-related complex phase in the Au-Zn System.

γ-AuZn in the Au-Zn binary system has been synthesized and its structure analyzed by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. It crystallizes in the trigonal space group P31m (No. 157) with ∼227 atoms per unit cell and represents a \surd3a × \surd3a × c superstructure of rhombohedrally distorted γ-AuZn. The structure is largely tetrahedrally closed packed. The formation of γ-AuZn can be understood within the framework of a Hume-Rothery stabilization mechanism with a valence electron concentration of 1.68 e/a (valence electrons per atom).