Cu-Based alloys with excellent conductivity and mechanical properties have a wide range of applications in the development of modern energy, electric power, machinery, electronic devices, and other industries. Cu-based alloys reinforced by the dispersion of a second phase have high strength and high conductivity, and these can be used in high-tech fields such as pulsed high magnetic field, high-speed rail contact wire, and aerospace technical field. Cu-based binary alloys such as Cu-Nb, Cu-Ag, Cu-Cr and Cu-Zr have been widely studied. The Cu-Ag alloy exhibits superior electrical conductivity and mechanical properties compared to other binary alloys based on copper. As a noble metal, Ag is expensive, and the preparation of Cu-Ag alloys is complicated and expensive. Therefore, in recent years, it has become a popular research topic to design new fabrication methods and alloying elements of Cu-Ag alloys. Scholars have attempted to add some third components to Cu-Ag alloys, which can not only reduce Ag content but also improve comprehensive properties of the alloy. Moreover, the properties of the alloy have been improved by optimizing the heat treatment process in the deformation stages. Results show that alloy strength increases with increasing Ag content. The strength of the alloy can also be improved by combining directional solidification and cold deformation. Some studies have shown that electrical conductivity can be improved by the horizontal continuous casting process or by applying DC and AC magnetic fields during solidification. Currently, Nb, Cr, Zr, W, Fe, and rare-earth elements are used in the synthesis of Cu-Ag alloys. The Nb-rich phase has good ductility and can easily form fibers in the drawing process, leading to increased strength. Zr and W can inhibit the precipitation of Ag, improving alloy strength. Cr can improve the wear resistance of the alloy by approximately 2—3 times;however, ductility of the Cr-rich phase is relatively poor. This paper summarizes recent results in high-strength and high-conductivity Cu-Ag alloys and analyzes methods to improve the properties of Cu-Ag binary alloys and Cu-Ag ternary alloys. In order to facilitate the preparation of Cu-Ag alloys with superior comprehensive properties, this paper aims to provide a valuable reference. © 2023 Cailiao Daobaoshe/ Materials Review. All rights reserved.
