Role of Zr on Phase Stability in As-Quenched Cu-9Al-10Mn-3Ag Alloy

The development of new alloys with shape memory effects is crucial for advancing technological device applications across various fields. Copper-based alloys are known to make a significant contribution in this regard. In this context, the role of Zr on the phase stability in a CuAlMnAg alloy initially subjected to quenching was investigated. Cu-9Al-10Mn-3Ag-xZr alloy with additions of 1, 3, and 5wt.%Zr was prepared and studied using various experimental techniques. The results indicated that increasing the Zr content reduced the grain size of the beta 1 phase, increased the volumetric fraction of the beta 3 (L21) phase, and decreased the amount of beta 1 (D03). The reduction in the relative fraction of the beta 1 phase was also associated with the formation of Cu5Zr and CuZr phases during rapid cooling. Additionally, the presence of Zr reduced the bainite fraction formed from heating of as-quenched alloys and enhanced the thermal stability of the beta-type phases.