Microstructure and properties of nanofilament Cu-Nb and Cu-Ag composites

TL;DR

This paper reviews the microstructure and properties of Cu-Ag and Cu-Nb composites, highlighting their potential for high-strength, high-conductivity applications and examining how processing affects their characteristics.

Contribution

It provides a comparative analysis of different fabrication methods and their impact on the microstructure and properties of Cu-Ag and Cu-Nb composites.

Findings

Microstructure varies with processing techniques.

Electrical and mechanical properties depend on manufacturing methods.

Bundle drawing offers a unique production route without melting.

Abstract

The new high strength high electrical conductivity materials are demanded for advanced electric applications. Among them Cu-Ag and Cu-Nb wires are promising materials for generators of strong and variable magnetic fields production. Review of selected results of the studies into Cu-Ag and Cu-Nb based composite materials shows presence of various, not always well explained, mechanisms and phenomena which are observed during their production, examination and applications. Two classical copper alloys (with silver and with niobium) were selected for the investigations. The third material used in the studies was produced by bundle drawing of niobium wire in copper tube without classical melting and casting. Microstructure, mechanical and electrical properties were presented in relation to processing technology.