This document discusses intermetallic compounds, which are intermediate phases that form between two metals in an alloy system. Intermetallics have a fixed crystal structure and composition that is different from the original metals. They can be stoichiometric, with a set composition, or nonstoichiometric, allowing for some variation. Intermetallics are very hard and brittle due to their partly ionic bonding. Examples discussed include molybdenum disilicide used in furnace elements and copper aluminide used for precipitation hardening in alloys. Aluminum-magnesium-silicon alloys and titanium aluminides see application in transportation and industrial equipment due to their mechanical properties at high temperatures.