Silvercadmium

Silvercadmium is a binary alloy composed of silver and cadmium. The proportions of these metals can vary, leading to different properties. This alloy is known for its excellent electrical conductivity, corrosion resistance, and relatively low melting point compared to pure silver.

One of the primary applications of silvercadmium alloys has been in electrical contacts, particularly in high-current switching applications. Its ability to withstand arcing and its good conductivity made it a suitable choice for circuit breakers and other heavy-duty electrical equipment. The presence of cadmium in these alloys contributes to a self-healing property of the electrical contacts, where the cadmium oxidizes and then vaporizes during arcing, effectively cleaning the contact surface.

However, due to the toxicity of cadmium and its associated health and environmental concerns, the use of silvercadmium alloys has significantly declined. Regulatory bodies worldwide have implemented restrictions and encouraged the development and adoption of alternative materials. Modern electrical contacts increasingly utilize alloys without cadmium, such as silver-tin oxide, silver-nickel, or silver-tungsten, which offer comparable performance with improved safety profiles. Therefore, while historically significant, silvercadmium alloys are now largely phased out in new applications.