Effects of Zn/Cu Ratio and Silicon on Microstructure, Mechanical Properties, Tarnish and Corrosion Resistance of As-Cast 940 Silver Alloys

This work studies the effects of Zn/Cu ratio and silicon on the improvement of mechanical properties, tarnish and corrosion resistance of 940 silver alloys. The silver alloys to be investigated are divided into 2 groups. The group 1 alloys are Ag-Cu-Zn alloys. The group 2 alloys are Ag-Cu-Zn-0.02Si alloys. The microstructures of all alloys to be tested look similar and consist of a Ag-rich matrix (alpha phase) and Cu-rich eutectic structure (alpha + beta phase). The proportion of eutectic structure decreases by increasing Zn/Cu ratio. Increasing Zn/Cu ratio significantly decreases hardness, ultimate tensile strength, but markedly increases elongation. Addition of 0.02wt.-% Si to Ag-Cu-Zn alloys has no effect on hardness and ultimate tensile strength, but decreases elongation. The tarnish and corrosion resistance of Ag-Cu-Zn alloys in 1 % NaCl solution at 298 K significantly increases with increasing Zn/Cu ratio. Addition of silicon also improves tarnish resistance.