There is no precise definition of how large the unit cell of a complex metallic alloy has to be, but the broadest definition includes Zintl phases, skutterudites, and Heusler compounds on the most simple end, and quasicrystals on the more complex end.
[2] Following the invention of X-ray crystallography techniques in the 1910s, the atomic structure of many compounds was investigated.
[4] Most physical properties of CMAs show distinct differences with respect to the behavior of normal metallic alloys and therefore these materials possess a high potential for technological application.
The European Commission funded the Network of Excellence CMA[5] from 2005 to 2010, uniting 19 core groups in 12 countries.
From this emerged the European Integrated Center for the Development of New Metallic Alloys and Compounds (previously C-MAC, now ECMetAC), which connects researchers at 21 universities.