Oxide dispersion strengthened copper (ODS-Cu)

Oxide dispersion strengthened (ODS) copper alloys are copper strengthened by dispersing small particles of a second phase in the matrix that impedes dislocation motion. They have excellent strength, ductility and outstanding electrical and thermal conductivity. Compared to pure copper, ODS copper alloys exhibit excellent thermal stability (i.e., superior strength retention after exposure to high temperatures) thanks to particles retarding grain growth during recrystallization. The increased strength that comes with only a small decrease in thermal conductivity. The combination of high strength and high conductivity, as well as resistance to damage and radiation, make ODS copper ideal for a variety of applications, including fusion reactor components, collimator jaws of modern particle accelerators, X-ray absorbers, heat exchangers, and high strength Nb3Sn superconductor.