Use of Cerium in Neutralizing Iron Impurity in Aluminum Alloys

Iron is the main and most detrimental impurity in most industrial casting aluminum alloys. Iron content in aluminum alloys is limited, up to 0.1 weight% in some alloys.

The Need

Iron is a major impurity element in primary and secondary (scrap) aluminum alloys. It is difficult to remove during melting and casting. Controlling the formation of Al-Fe-based intermetallics via alloying is key to leveraging the mechanical properties of aluminum alloy products. The current structural alloys, which limit the Fe content to about 0.3%, are generally more expensive for widespread applications in transportation and other industries.

The Technology

This technology describes the neutralization of the detrimental effects of iron impurities in aluminum alloys using cerium. Additions of Ce to aluminum alloys containing Fe impurity can form an Al10FeCe2 phase, which can neutralize the detrimental effect of the high Fe impurity content. Alloys can tolerate high Fe content and improve the alloy’s mechanical properties.

Commercial Applications

This invention can be used for iron impurity removal for the secondary aluminum market in industries such as transportation.

Benefits/Advantages

This technology allows the increased amount of iron impurities found in secondary aluminum to be processed, resulting in properties similar to that of primary aluminum at a lower cost.