Microstructure and strength of wire-drawn Cu-Ag filamentary composites

Two-phase Cu-Ag alloys with elongated, filamentary microstructures are obtained by the cold working of cast materials and such materials possess very high mechanical strength and excellent electrical conductivity. The evolution of microstructure and strength from the cast state during cold working is examined and the factors responsible for the high strength evaluated. Both phases present in a composite deform to the same extent leading to refined stable-morphology structures. The Cu matrix, containing some Ag solute, is shown to work harden more extensively than pure Cu, and the fine Ag filaments produce additional strengthening only after very high levels of working, as their dimensions reach very small values. Copyright (C) 1996 Acta Metallurgica Inc.