Phase equilibria in the Cu-Se system

In this paper, we present a critical evaluation of available T-x and p-T ph ase-diagram data for the Cu-Se system and summarize the thermodynamic and s tructural properties of the intermediate phases in this system. Earlier, th e phase equilibria in the Cu-Se system were summarized by Chakrabarti and L aughlin in 1981 [1]. However, new data have since been published which are of key importance for the characterization of the Cu-Se system and intermed iate phases and are given a great deal of attention in this review. The Cu- Se system is interesting in that copper(I) selenide, Cu2Se, retains its sem iconducting properties in the molten state [2]. Practical application of th is compound, however, still depends on the ability to prepare single-phase material [3]. Of key importance in this context are phase-diagram data for Cu2Se: location of the liquidus and composition stability limits. The Cu-Se system is also of considerable interest in the context of the characteriza tion of cupriferous electrolyte slime and selenium extraction [4].