Many base metals provide specific mechanical, electrical, and thermal characteristics on their own. However, their physical properties may make them unsuitable for certain applications. With the addition of other metals, the base metals can enhance their properties where they can be made more durable, ductile, stronger, or less brittle. Zinc is a common additive to…

When certain materials are added to copper it changes the physical and mechanical composition of the metal. Two such materials are tin and zinc. Copper that has tin added into it is considered bronze. Bronze alloys provide a very hard metal that can sometimes be brittle and inflexible. When zinc is added to copper, it…

Copper’s immense popularity in products made around the world requires manufacturers to develop this alloy in high quantities to meet rising demand. However, copper by itself is often not suitable for products when it is melted and cast into shape. Its soft properties require strengthening yet also elasticity so it does not become brittle. In…

Copper use is numerous and widespread. From electrical wires to copper pipe fittings, industries around the world employ this metal for their operations. Typically, copper is not the sole metal used in applications. Other metals will be alloyed with this material to provide a wide range of properties and characteristics. Silver (Ag) is an element…