On the dynamic embrittlement of copper-chromium alloys by sulphur

The high temperature ductility of copper-chromium alloys has been examined in the temperature range of 25–700°C. Copper-chromium alloys exhibit severe intermediate temperature loss in ductility. The loss in ductility is associated with the ingress of sulphur along the grain boundaries under the influence of tensile stress, followed by decohesion of grain boundaries. Integranular facets of the fracture surface exhibit striations, indicative of quasi-static, step-wise crack growth process.