ABSTRACT
In this chapter the various types of materials utilized for arcing contacts are described in terms of chemistry, general physical properties, and material structure. Some general information is given regarding the manufacturing technology that is utilized to make these materials. This is important to understand since some of the materials can be manufactured by several widely differing manufacturing processes and, as a result, materials with identical chemical compositions can have very different performance characteristics. The chapter also provides some performance information relating the materials to electrical loads and specific applications.
