The Effect of Cow Bone Particulate on the Mechanical Properties and the Microstructure of Aluminium Brass

This study investigates the mechanical properties and microstructural characteristics of aluminium brass composites reinforced with varying percentages of cow bone particulate (CBP). The analysis includes stress, strain, elongation at yield, Brinell hardness, and impact resistance measurements, complemented by microstructural examination. The results show that increasing CBP content enhances the stress capacity and hardness of the composites, with stress values rising from 2.2123 N/mm² at 0% CBP to 3.9951 N/mm² at 3% CBP, and Brinell hardness increasing from 52.98 BHN to 103.63 BHN. Conversely, strain values decrease from 16.8% to 13.26%, indicating a reduction in ductility. Impact resistance also diminishes with higher CBP content, from 43.52 joules at 0% CBP to 32 joules at 3% CBP. Microstructural analysis reveals that CBP particles are distributed both as clusters and fine isolated particles within the brass matrix, influencing grain size and boundary strength. These findings suggest that while CBP reinforcement enhances the hardness and stress resistance of aluminium brass, it also introduces brittleness, affecting the material’s overall ductility and impact resistance. The study provides valuable insights into the potential applications and limitations of CBP-reinforced aluminium brass composites.