Evolution of microstructure and properties of Cu-Cr-Sn-Zr-Zn alloys with different Zn contents

Cu-Cr-Sn-Zr-xZn alloys with different Zn contents (0.087, 0.26, and 0.42 wt%) were prepared by vacuum casting, and the microstructure and properties of these alloys were investigated using different detection methods. The results show that the Zn element could promote the formation of some primary phase Cr particles and parts that were stretched into fibers during cold drawing deformation, thus enhancing the strength of these alloys. Meanwhile, the number of twins in these alloys increases with the increase in Zn content. When Zn content is 0.42%, the Cu0.64Zn0.36 phase is generated, which could play a role in the second phase’s strengthening. The Cu-0.97Cr-0.096Sn-0.068Zr-0.42Zn alloy shows high tensile strength and electrical conductivity properties of 832 MPa and 72%IACS, respectively. [Display omitted] •The strength and conductivity of the alloy with a certain Zn content reaches 832 MPa, 72%IACS, respectively.•The number of twins increases with increasing Zn content.•Cu0.64Zn0.36 intermediate compounds were found in Cu-Cr alloys at a certain level of Zn content.•The Zn element promotes the precipitation of the incipient Cr phase.