About this Abstract |
| Meeting |
2026 TMS Annual Meeting & Exhibition
|
| Symposium
|
Advances in Ceramic Materials and Processing
|
| Presentation Title |
Phase Stability of Cu<sub>2</sub>O: A Spark Plasma Sintering Study |
| Author(s) |
Sergio Ojeda Santillan, Ralf Steinert, Martin Bram, Olivier Guillon, Olivia A. Graeve |
| On-Site Speaker (Planned) |
Sergio Ojeda Santillan |
| Abstract Scope |
Cuprous oxide (Cu<sub>2</sub>O) is a promising material for energy and environmental applications due to its unique semiconductor and catalytic properties. This study investigates how spark plasma sintering and annealing affect the phase transformation and microstructure of Cu<sub>2</sub>O, aiming to optimize its stability and performance. Cu<sub>2</sub>O samples were sintered at 800-900°C with varying holding times, achieving full density at 850°C for two minutes. Annealing at 700°C for one hour led to the elimination of metallic copper and the formation of monoclinic cupric oxide (CuO) alongside Cu<sub>2</sub>O, as confirmed by X-ray diffraction. Scanning electron microscopy revealed well-defined grains after sintering and the appearance of cracks and voids post-annealing, potentially impacting material integrity. These findings guide the selection of processing parameters to tailor the Cu<sub>2</sub>O/CuO ratio, supporting the development of advanced copper oxide-based materials for hydrogen production, gas sensing, and semiconductor devices. |
| Proceedings Inclusion? |
Planned: |