Thermodynamic modelling of the copper-zinc-tin ternary system : A study towards lead-free brass

Abstract: Lead (Pb) is frequently used as an alloying element in brass to enhance machinability and castability. However, this element poses a significant risk to human health and the environment. The 2021 revision of the Drinking Water Directive imposed stricter limits on Pb content in brass, encouraging the development of lead-free brass. Several studies have identified tin (Sn) as a potential substitute for Pb in brass. This master’s thesis examines the thermodynamic description of the Cu-Zn-Sn ternary system, using the Swerim Cu database. The investigation involved casting five alloys in the Cu-rich corner, followed by heat treatment at 550 oC until homogenized, and quenching, after which the samples were analyzed to determine the bcc and fcc phase composition. The results were used to confirm the thermodynamic description, and the ternary parameters of the fcc and bcc phases were optimized to match the experimental results. After the optimization, a significant enhancement is achieved in the description of the Cu-Zn-Sn ternary system, which better fits the experimental data.