Enhanced Strength and Electrical Conductivity of Cu–8Fe Composite by Adding Trace Ag and P

Abstract

Cu–8Fe–0.5Ag–0.02P (mass%) in situ composites were fabricated by inductive melting and then the as-casted sample drew heavily at room temperature to refine the microstructure and optimize the mechanical and electrical properties. The microstructure evolution of the composite during drawing was investigated, while the tensile strengths and electrical conductivity of the as-drawn samples were measured. Comparing to Cu–8Fe composite, the tensile strength and electrical conductivity were enhanced largely by adding trace Ag and P. The results show that trace Ag refines the primary Fe dendrites and promotes the precipitation of secondary phase Fe particles. Trace P reacts with the solid solution Fe atoms and then facilitates ellipsoid Fe₃P particles precipitation. The mechanical strength and electrical conductivity of Cu–8Fe–0.5Ag–0.02P were improved obviously, which is attributed to the combined effects of trace Ag and P.