Research progress on high-temperature, high-strength, high-conductivity copper alloys: Design and preparation of novel electromagnetic rail materials

As a typical multi-physics coupled system, the electromagnetic (EM) railgun imposes extreme requirements on its rail materials. Currently, no copper alloy has achieved the combined performance metrics of a yield strength of 700 MPa, an electrical conductivity of 60% IACS, and a softening temperature above 700 °C. To design materials meeting these requirements, extensive studies have been carried out, including machine learning-assisted composition design, second-phase interface manipulation, and softening mechanism investigation. This paper first introduces the damage mechanisms of the rail, then reviews the progress on candidate materials with an emphasis on composition design. Subsequently, it outlines the fabrication methods. Finally, it emphasizes the application of heterogeneous structures to overcome current material performance bottlenecks, and suggests potential research directions based on existing obstacles.