The systems-based design of high-strength, high-conductivity alloys

A systems approach to the design of materials involves modeling the interactions of the processing-structure-property links. This approach leads to total optimization of properties both within and beyond the limits of any empirical approach. The design of precipitation-strengthened, high-strength, high-electrical-conductivity alloys provides a unique opportunity for demonstrating the efficiency of this approach. Using this computer-aided design, a new class of alloys with improved strength-conductivity combinations can be designed.