Glidcop is a family of copper-based metal matrix composite (MMC) alloys mixed primarily with small amounts of aluminum oxide ceramic particles.
[2] The aluminum oxide particles block dislocation creep, which retards recrystallization and prevents grain growth; thus preserving the metal's strength at high temperatures.
For radiation levels of 0 to 150 dpa (displacements per atom), the tensile strength was nearly constant and swelling not noticeable, while pure copper experienced a linear decrease in tensile strength and 30% swelling between 0 and 50 dpa.
[3] Glidcop uses include resistance welding electrodes to prevent them from sticking to galvanized and other coated steels.
It has also been used in applications where its resistance to softening at high temperatures is necessary, including incandescent light bulb, leads relay blades, contactor supports, x-ray tube components, heat exchanger sections for fusion power and synchrotron units, high field magnetic coils, sliding electrical contacts, arc welder electrodes, electronic leadframes, MIG contact tips, commutators, high speed motor and generator components, and microwave power tube components.