First-principle study on structural, elastic and electronic properties of rare-earth intermetallic compounds: TbCu and TbZn

► First principle calculations have been made for TbCu and TbZn. ► TbCu and TbZn both are ductile in nature. ► Homogeneous charge distribution and no bandgap lead to metallic character of TbCu and TbZn. ► D-states of Cu and Zn in TbCu and TbZn respectively are dominant cause for the electrical conductivity.