brass
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Medieval brass doorknob
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A yellowish or reddish, malleable and ductile alloy
of copper (55–95%) and zinc
(5–45%), known since Roman times and widely used in industry and for
ornament and decoration. Up to 36% zinc forms α-brass, which can be
worked cold; with more zinc a mixture of α and β-brass is formed,
which is less ductile but stronger. Brasses containing more than 45% zinc
(white brasses) are unworkable and have few uses. Some brasses also contain
other metals: lead to improve machinability,
aluminum or tin
for greater corrosion-resistance, and
nickel, manganese,
or iron for greater strength. Brass is widely
used for pipe and electrical fittings, screws, musical instruments, and
ornamental metal work.
Related category
• INORGANIC
CHEMISTRY
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