Zirconium Copper Master Alloy, 7440-50-8, 7440-67-7

ZIRCONIUM COPPER MASTER ALLOY 

1. PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION AND CHEMICAL IDENTITY

2. CHEMICAL STRUCTURE

2.1. Molecular Structure

Zirconium Copper 50Zr master alloy is an intermetallic compound of copper (Cu) and zirconium (Zr) elements. The alloy consists primarily of CuZr and CuZr₂ intermetallic phases embedded in a copper-rich matrix. This brittle structure allows the ingots to be easily fractured for precise weighing and controlled additions.

Crystal Structure:

                    ZrCu 50Zr MASTER ALLOY
                               |
              CuZr + CuZr₂ Intermetallic Phases
                               |
             +----------------+----------------+
             |                |                |
         CuZr Phase        CuZr₂ Phase     Cu Matrix
         (Orthorhombic)    (Tetragonal)    (FCC)

2.2. Phase Structure and Crystallographic Properties

2.3. Crystal Structure Details

3. PRODUCT QUALITY AND TYPICAL PROPERTIES

Note: The narrow solidification range ensures homogeneous dissolution in copper melts.

4. CHEMICAL COMPOSITION

5. PHYSICAL PROPERTIES

6. MICROSTRUCTURE AND METALLURGICAL PROPERTIES

The 50Zr master alloy consists primarily of intermetallic phases such as CuZr and CuZr₂, embedded in a copper-rich matrix. This brittle structure allows the ingots to be easily fractured for precise weighing of additions. It provides a consistent vehicle for zirconium delivery to melts with significantly higher efficiency compared to using pure zirconium metal.

Narrow Melting Range (885-895°C): This narrow range ensures that the master alloy dissolves homogeneously and rapidly when added to the copper melt. A wide melting range could cause segregation and non-uniform distribution.

Brittle Structure: The intermetallic phases create a brittle structure that allows easy fracturing of ingots, which is advantageous for precise weighing and controlled additions.

7. APPLICATION AREAS

ZrCu 50Zr is used to add zirconium to copper and copper-based alloys for the following purposes:

8. ALLOYING MECHANISM

8.1. Effects of Zirconium Addition

8.2. Precipitation Reaction

Cu (supersaturated solid solution) → Cu matrix + Cu₃Zr precipitates

After heat treatment, fine and uniformly dispersed Cu₃Zr precipitates form from the supersaturated solid solution. These precipitates hinder dislocation movement, increasing strength while maintaining the matrix's high conductivity.

9. PACKAGING

10. STORAGE AND HANDLING

Storage:

• Store in a dry, well-ventilated area

• Keep away from moisture, open flames, and strong oxidizing agents

• Product is stable under recommended storage conditions

• No shelf life limitation when properly stored

Handling:

• Ingots are brittle and may fracture; handle carefully to avoid sharp edges

• Use appropriate mechanical lifting equipment for pallets

• Preheating: If surface moisture is suspected, preheat ingots to 100–150 °C before adding to molten metal baths to prevent steam explosions

11. HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT

Hazard Classification:

This product is not classified as hazardous under GHS/CLP regulations in the solid form as supplied. No special hazard labeling is required for transport or supply.

Preventive Measures:

First Aid:

Environment:

Prevent fine chips or dust from entering sewers or water bodies. Dispose of waste material in accordance with local and national regulations. Material is generally recyclable.

12. TRANSPORT INFORMATION

13. REGULATORY STATUS

14. QUICK REFERENCE TABLE

15. CRITICAL NOTICES AND BEST PRACTICES

CRITICAL NOTICES:

1. Preheating Required: If surface moisture is present, preheat ingots to 100-150°C before addition to molten metal to prevent steam explosions.

2. Brittle Material: Ingots are brittle and may fracture during handling. Use care to avoid sharp edges.

3. Melting Operations: Fume and dust formation risk. Use local ventilation and appropriate respiratory protection.

4. Water Prohibition: Do not use water on fires involving this material. Use dry sand, Class D extinguishers, or inert gas.

5. Environmental Protection: Prevent fine particles from entering water bodies.

6. Recyclability: Material is generally recyclable. Dispose of in accordance with local regulations.

BEST PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS:

Storage:

• Store in a dry, well-ventilated area

• Keep away from moisture and strong oxidizing agents

• No shelf life limitation under proper conditions

Handling:

• Use appropriate protective gloves, safety shoes, and goggles

• Use mechanical lifting equipment for pallets

• Handle carefully to avoid sharp edges

Melting:

• Preheat if moisture is suspected

• Use local ventilation

• Wear full heat-resistant protective clothing

Waste Management:

• Dispose in accordance with local regulations

• Material is generally recyclable

LEGAL DISCLAIMER

This Technical Data Sheet (TDS) is for informational purposes only and is prepared based on available technical data. The user is solely responsible for determining the suitability of the product for their specific application and for complying with all local, national, and international regulations. For complete safety, storage, handling, transport, waste, and regulatory compliance information, the official Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS) provided by the manufacturer/supplier must be consulted. This document does not substitute professional advice.