A method of joining workpieces using a solder alloy. The alloy contains either at least 1% or a maximum of about 10% by weight of an element or a mixture of elements selected from the group consisting of titanium, zirconium, hafnium, vanadium, niobium, and tantalum; either at least 0.01% or 0.01-10% by weight of an element or a mixture of elements selected from the group of the lanthanides (rare earths); either at least 0.5% or 0.5-10% by weight of an element or a mixture of elements selected from the group consisting of silver, copper, and indium; optionally either at least 0.01% or 0.01-1% by weight of gallium; and a remainder consisting of tin, lead, or of a mixture of tin and lead.