Phase equilibria in M–X–X' and M–Al–X ternary systems (M = transition metal; X, X' = B, C, N, Si) and the crystal chemistry of ternary compounds

The published data on phase equilibria in the M–X–X' and M–Al–X ternary systems (M is a Group III–VIII transition metal, X, X' are B, C, N, Si) are surveyed. These systems provide a basis for the directed search for oxygen-free ceramic materials for various purposes. The phase diagrams for the ternary systems are presented; more than two hundred ternary phases formed in these systems are systematised and described for the first time. The typical crystal structures of the ternary compounds and of the phases are considered, the general and distinguishing features of these structures are analysed. It is shown that ternary compounds containing the XM₆ octahedral groups possess homogeneity regions. The bibliography includes 240 references.