Last updated: 2026-01
Material Identity
- Chemical name: Copper–zinc–vanadium complex vanadate
- Material system: multicomponent metal vanadate oxide (Cu–Zn–V–O)
- Formula: composition-dependent; no single stoichiometric formula applies
- CAS numbers: not uniquely defined due to variable phase composition
- Physical form: inorganic oxide ceramic, typically supplied as powder
- What it is not: not a polymer additive, not a metallic alloy, not a fiber or elastomeric filler
Activation & Trigger Conditions
- Trigger: temperature change
- Energy domain: lattice vibrational dynamics within the vanadate framework
- Absent trigger: no dimensional response without thermal variation
- Insufficient condition: poor crystallinity or incomplete phase formation suppresses negative expansion
- Excess condition: phase degradation at extreme temperatures eliminates functional behavior
Functional Role
- Provides negative thermal expansion response
- Compensates positive thermal expansion in composite systems
- Contributes to dimensional stability under thermal cycling
- Acts as a functional ceramic filler for thermal expansion tuning
Application Windows
- Compatible systems: polymers, ceramics, adhesives, and composite matrices
- Loading range: formulation-dependent; no universal loading applies
- Processing notes: dispersion quality and matrix compatibility influence effectiveness
Limitations & Failure Modes
- Poor dispersion → localized thermal mismatch → microcracking or warpage
- Phase instability → loss of lattice mechanism → disappearance of negative expansion effect
- Weak matrix interaction → inefficient stress transfer → reduced compensation performance
Alternatives & Trade-offs
- Zirconium tungstate: single-phase oxide with well-studied negative expansion behavior
- Low-expansion glass fillers: reduce expansion without active contraction
- Other framework oxides: may offer partial compensation across narrower temperature ranges
When to Use
- When dimensional stability across temperature changes is required
- When ceramic fillers are acceptable in the formulation
- When passive thermal expansion compensation is preferred over mechanical design changes
- When isotropic or near-isotropic response is needed
FAQ
Is copper–zinc–vanadium a single fixed compound?
No. It refers to a complex vanadate system with composition- and phase-dependent behavior.
Is the negative thermal expansion chemically driven?
No. The effect is governed by lattice dynamics rather than chemical reactions.
Why does performance vary between batches or formulations?
Differences in phase composition, crystallinity, dispersion, and matrix interaction affect the observed response.
Data
No numerical values are listed. Thermal expansion behavior and stability ranges are formulation- and phase-specific and must be verified experimentally.
Sources
General literature on vanadate framework oxides and negative thermal expansion ceramics; supplier-specific technical documentation where available.