Published online by Cambridge University Press: 28 February 2011
Measurements of tensile strength and creep resistance have been made on bulk samples of nanocrystalline Cu, Pd and Ag consolidated from powders by cold compaction. Samples of Cu-Cu2O have also been tested. Yield strength for samples with mean grain sizes of 5–80 nm and bulk densities on the order of 95% of theoretical density are increased 2–5 times over that measured in pure, annealed samples of the same composition with micrometer grain sizes. Ductility in the nanocrystalline Cu has exceeded 6% true strain, however, nanocrystalline Pd samples were much less ductile. Constant load creep tests performed at room temperature at stresses of >100 MPa indicate logarithmic creep. The mechanical properties results are interpreted to be due to grain size-related strengthening and processing flaw-related weakening.