Nickel

Nickel is an element of very rare occurrence, and is therefore quite expensive. Ni has a high strength, also at very high temperatures, while the tougness is still good, even at very low temperatures. Ni provides an excellent resistance against corrosion, also up to elevated temperatures. Alloying is done to increase the mechanical properties, to shift the working temperature to even higher levels (over 1000°C), and to increase the corrosion resistance, at high temperatures and in agressive environments. The good high temperature properties of Ni alloys explain their widespread use as turbine blades for example. Ni has a FCC crystal lattice giving good cold deformation properties.