Author(s): Ekwedigwe CM, Okoye CN, Madubogwu IJ and Nwambu CN

Abstract: The study explored the effects of dopants content on the structure, and mechanical properties of Cu-30wt%Zn alloys. The Cu-30Zn alloy was incorporated with varying concentrations of aluminium, chromium and tin (0.1- 0.5wt% and 1.0-5.0wt% at 0.1 and 1.0 intervals respectively) and fabricated using a stir-casting technique. The tensile strength, hardness, and impact strength were examined. The microstructures of the cast alloys were analyzed using scanning electron microscope (SEM), and energy dispersive spectroscope (EDS). Results showed that the additions of aluminium, chromium and tin modified the structure of the alloy resulting in improvements of tensile strength and hardness of the alloy at 4.0wt% aluminium, 3wt% chromium and 4wt tin. Impact strength were at peak value at 0.4wt% aluminium, 0.2wt% chromium and 3wt% tin. The study revealed the existence of the fine stable phase, the β-phase (intermetallic phases), and the primary α-phase. The mechanical properties were improved as a result of these phase changes. Because of its increased tensile strength and hardness, Cu-30wt%Zn enhanced with 3.0% chromium is advised for use in engineering applications.

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