Surface segregation in binary solid solutions: The γ*-σ* representation

On the basis of the specific surface energy ratio γ* and atomic-size ratio σ* of the two solid-solution constituents, it is shown that dilute substitutional alloys map into regions of the γ*-σ* plane with common surface-segregation behavior, the mapping being different for the various surface-segregation theories. A comparison of theory with experiment is made for 45 bimetallic alloys, and general conclusions concerning the validity of the different theories and future directions are made. © 1981 The American Physical Society.