Quantitative Analysis of Silicon Influence and Deformation Impact on the Mechanical and Corrosion Characteristics of Nickel Aluminium Bronze (NAB) Alloy

Abstract

Nickel aluminum bronze (NAB) alloy has become increasingly popular due to its superior strength, corrosion resistance, and thermal properties. This study provides an in-depth analysis of the effect of silicon and deformation percentages on the mechanical and corrosion characteristics of NAB alloy, for marine and architectural applications. The research was carried out by systematically varying the silicon percentage (0-10%) while the percentage of deformation ranges from 0-10% at ambient temperature (32 oC), and subsequent changes in its mechanical properties and corrosion resistance were observed. Mechanical properties such as ultimate tensile strength, ductility, and hardness were evaluated using standard testing methods. The results indicated a significant correlation between the silicon percentage and the mechanical properties. Specifically, an increase in the silicon percentage was found to enhance the tensile strength from 190.7 MPa to 590.8 MPa, the ductility from 23.7% to 46.9% and the hardness from 130.5 HV to 262.4 HV values of the NAB alloy. The corrosion rate of 5.49 mm/a was obtained for the reference material containing 0% Si at 0% (X0-0) deformation, while the least corrosion rate of 9.8x10-5 mm/y was recorded for 2 wt. % Si at 10% deformation (X2-5). These findings have significant implications for the use of NAB alloy in marine and architectural applications. When the silicon percentage is optimized, the mechanical strength and corrosion resistance of the alloy are enhanced, thereby improving the durability and longevity of structures made from the developed NAB alloy