Researches for higher electrical conductivity copper‐based materials

Abstract Copper and copper‐based materials are widely used in power electronics, automobiles, mechanical manufacturing and high‐tech manufacturing fields such as aerospace, telecommunications and integrated circuits owing to their comprehensive advantages in mechanical, electrical conductivity and processing properties. With the rapid development of technology, many emerging technical fields have introduced more challenging requirements for the electrical conductivity of copper. This article reviews the research status of high‐conductivity copper‐based materials and introduces three methods to improve electrical conductivity, including purification, alloying and addition of nanocarbon materials. We summarise the advantages, disadvantages and future development trends of methods for improving copper conductivity. The key to producing high‐conductivity copper‐based materials is development of low‐cost, continuous and stable processes.