Is nickel stronger than copper?


Yes, nickel is generally stronger than copper. Nickel has a higher tensile strength and yield strength compared to copper. Tensile strength refers to the maximum stress a material can withstand before breaking under tension, while yield strength is the stress at which a material begins to deform permanently. Nickel's higher strength makes it more resistant to deformation and enables it to withstand higher loads and stresses than copper.
In addition to its higher strength, nickel also exhibits better resistance to corrosion, particularly in harsh environments. This corrosion resistance makes nickel a preferred choice in applications where exposure to corrosive substances is a concern.
On the other hand, copper is valued for its high electrical and thermal conductivity, which makes it an excellent choice for electrical wiring, power transmission, and heat exchangers. Copper is softer and more malleable than nickel, which can be advantageous in certain applications where flexibility and ease of forming are important.
Ultimately, the choice between nickel and copper depends on the specific requirements of the application, considering factors such as strength, conductivity, corrosion resistance, and cost.