Microstructure and properties of a silver–erbium oxide alloy

A Ag–4 wt.% Er solid solution alloy was produced by arc melting and quenching to room temperature. When this alloy was annealed in air at various temperatures, the Er was converted to ∼1-μm thick Er2O3 lamellae in the Ag matrix. Subsequent swaging and stress-relief annealing converted the lamellar microstructure to predominantly spheroidal Er2O3 particles. The alloys were examined by optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Electrical resistivities of 2.0–3.3 μΩ cm and hardness values of 83–162 HV were measured.