EFFECT OF ZINC ADDITION ON THE PROPERTIES OF WASTE ACID BATTERY LEAD ELECTRODE (Pb-Sb ALLOY)
Authors: *Oisakede M.O, Orumwense F.F.O, Sadjere E.G
DOI Info: N/A
ABSTRACT
In this research, an attempt has been made to improve the mechanical properties; tensile strength, impact energy, hardness values and corrosion behavior of Pb-Sb-Zn alloy system (waste lead electrode from lead acid battery) by alloying with zinc (Zn) (2-10%) using sand and metal mould casting techniques. The alloy was formed through casting by simultaneous addition of Zn. The mechanical properties of the alloys were determined using standard techniques while corrosion rates were determined by immersing the specimen in 0.5M of Sulphuric acid (H2SO4) solution and the weight loss was determined after one day over an interval of seven days. Results of this study show that tensile strength of the cast Pb-Sb-Zn alloy increased as a result of Zn addition (up to 6%) due to decrease in the grain size of the Pb-Sb-Zn alloy occasioned by increased uniform distribution of the Zn within the Pb-Sb matrix. The hardness values and corrosion resistance of the alloys increased as the percentage of zinc increased. The alloys cast in metal mould had the best properties. This work has established that the corrosion resistance and hardness values of waste lead electrode can be enhanced by alloying with zinc.
Affiliations: *Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Benin, PMB 1154, Benin City, Nigeria.
Keywords: Waste Lead Electrode, Mechanical Properties, Molten Metal, Impact Energy, Hardness Values, Corrosion Behavior
Published date: 2018/06/30
