Abstract: A metal alloy powder containing at least two alloying elements selected from the group of Ni, Cu, Cr, Sn, Mn, Co and W containing 1 to 99% by weight Ni, 1 to 99% by weight Cu, 6 to 60% by weight Cr, 6 to 15% by weight Sn, 6 to 15% by weight Mn, 6 to 15% by weight Co, and/or 6 to 15% by weight W for use in laminated ceramic capacitors with an internal electrode wherein said electrode comprises a sintered body of said alloy powder. A metal alloy powder containing at least two alloying elements selected from the group of Ni, Cu, Cr, Sn, Mn, Co and W wherein the onset of oxidation of the alloy powder occurs above about 250° C.