A study on preparation of copper–niobium composite by aluminothermic reduction of mixed oxides

Cu–Nb composites have come into prominence because of their high strength and high electrical conductivity. A number of preparative techniques have received attention among the investigators due to difference in melting point, density and crystal structure of the constituents. In the present paper a simple, easy to scale up, non-furnace process involving co-reduction of mixed oxides (CuO, Nb2O5) with aluminium in the presence of slag fluidizer CaO has been attempted to prepare a Cu–2.5Nb (wt%) composite. A typical charge composition of about 58.2% CuO, 3.5% Nb2O5, 23.3% CaO and 15% Al (specific heat 715 kcal/kg) resulted in a Cu–Nb product with 83% yield of nearly targeted composition. As reduced composite was homogenized by arc melting. Remelted and consolidated composite was drawn into wires of