Question 1

How do I call an Elixir function from Elchemy?

Accepted Answer

Use the ffi call syntax in Elchemy to interface with Elixir functions. The compiler generates type checks based on Elixir's typespecs for safety, but document these calls to maintain readability, as advised in the FAQ.

Question 2

Is Elchemy ready for production use?

Accepted Answer

Elchemy is still in development with incomplete features like side effects and Windows support. It's best for experimental or non-critical projects until it matures, as indicated by the low percentages in the maturity section.

Question 3

Can I use Elchemy with Phoenix?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can integrate Elchemy into Phoenix by compiling .elm files to .ex files. However, limitations with macros and side effects might affect certain components, so test thoroughly in your setup.

Question 4

Elchemy vs Elixir typespecs: which is better?

Accepted Answer

Elchemy offers a stricter, compile-time type system inspired by Elm, while Elixir's typespecs are optional and checked at runtime via Dialyzer. Elchemy provides more safety but less flexibility and ecosystem maturity.

Question 5

What's the performance impact of using Elchemy?

Accepted Answer

Elchemy compiles to idiomatic Elixir code, so performance is similar to hand-written Elixir. However, the compilation process adds build-time overhead, and type inference might slow down development in large codebases.

Question 6

How do I handle errors in Elchemy?

Accepted Answer

Elchemy's type system prevents most runtime errors, but for edge cases, use Elixir interop with ffi calls. Ensure typespecs are accurate, as errors in interop are the primary source of runtime issues.

Elchemy

What is Elchemy?

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Frequently Asked Questions