LIQUID-PHASE SINTERING OF BINARY COPPER-ALLOYS

The liquid phase sintering response of several binary copper-base premixes has been examined. Elements blended with the copper were Ag, Si, Sn and Pb; these exhibit different types of binary phase diagrams. Two sintering temperatures were used namely T(S)\T(I) = 1.1 and 1.2, where T(S) and T(I) are the sintering and isotherm temperatures, respectively, in degrees K. Alloy compositions were selected to give 5 w\o liquid phase during sintering. Properties evaluated were the densification parameter, sintered density, electrical conductivity, microhardness and stress-strain response. The results are discussed on the basis of the electronic structure of the component elements in each alloy.