3D printable copper-silver alloys promise improved performance

The study was led by Wolverhampton University's Additive Manufacturing of Functional Materials (AMFM) research group, part of the university’s Centre for Engineering Innovation and Research (CEIR). 

It was initiated in response to increased industry demand for 3D printable heat transfer materials and devices. The team said that copper-silver alloys offer significant potential in enabling the next generation of aerospace, automotive and biomedical devices.

Silver has the highest thermal conductivity and thermal diffusivity performance properties of any metal, closely followed by copper. However, the high reflectivity and desired thermal conductive properties create challenges for laser 3D printing due to laser energy reflection and heat dissipation hindering material meltpool generation.

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“Thermal management is challenging for many sectors and even small improvements in heat transfer can have a significant impact on reducing material waste while increasing component reliability and life,” said Dr Arun Arjunan, director of the CEIR at Wolverhampton University.