Structure of near-eutectic Bi-Zn liquid alloys

The structure of near-eutectic Bi1 − x Zn x melts (x = 0.04–0.25) has been studied by X-ray diffraction. We have analyzed structure factors, calculated pair correlation functions, and evaluated partial structure factors using reverse Monte Carlo simulation. The results demonstrate that the composition dependences of structural parameters are nonlinear around the eutectic point. Bismuth-rich melts have a random atomic distribution, whereas zinc enrichment leads to the formation of Zn clusters.