Microstructural inhomogeneities in Cu–Ag–Zr alloys due to heavy plastic deformation

The microstructure and mechanical properties of heavily cold-worked CuAgZr alloys are investigated to understand the development of strain in these alloys. Heat treatments increase strain and if applied intermediately between large strains of cold deformation this happens to be valid even for comparable stress levels. This study is focused on the state after the heat treatment in order to show the impact of the microstructure in the mentioned state on the development of the mechanical properties. The microstructure of the samples is inhomogeneous after heavy plastic deformation and also after annealing in the order of the recrystallisation temperature. At this temperature a certain fraction of Ag that has been dissolved during deformation reprecipitates and strengthens the material again. In addition, annealing causes the formation of twins, which is considered as origin of an raised elastic modulus.