Influence of cation substitution on mechanical properties of (Cu1–xAgx)7GeSe5I mixed crystals and composites on their base

Abstract

Microhardness of (Cu1–xAgx)7GeSe5I mixed crystals and composites on their base was investigated using the Vickers indenter at room temperature. (Cu1–xAgx)7GeSe5I mixed crystals were obtained using the Bridgman–Stockbarger method. Composites on their base were prepared as a pressed mixture of (Cu1–xAgx)7GeSe5I micropowder and ethylene-vinyl acetate polymer in 90:10 concentration ratio, respectively. Dependences of microhardness versus the indenter penetration depth have been analyzed. Influence of Cu+→Ag+ isovalent cation substitution on the microhardness of (Cu1–xAgx)7GeSe5I mixed crystals and composites on their base have been studied.