Cerium aluminum, also known as cerium-aluminum alloy, is an alloy composed of the elements cerium and aluminum. It is primarily used as a grain refiner in the production of certain types of metals, particularly in aluminum and magnesium alloys.

The addition of cerium to aluminum or magnesium alloys has several beneficial effects on their properties. Some of these effects include:

1. Grain Refinement: Cerium has a strong grain-refining effect, which means it helps to reduce the size of the crystals (grains) in the metal. Smaller grain sizes lead to improved mechanical properties, such as increased strength and ductility.
2. Improved Mechanical Properties: The grain refinement achieved by cerium addition leads to enhanced mechanical properties, making the alloy stronger and more resistant to deformation and fracture.
3. Corrosion Resistance: Cerium-containing alloys often exhibit improved corrosion resistance due to the formation of a protective oxide layer on the metal’s surface.
4. Enhanced High-Temperature Performance: Cerium-aluminum alloys can show improved performance at elevated temperatures, making them suitable for high-temperature applications.
5. Reduced Hot Cracking: The addition of cerium can help reduce the likelihood of hot cracking during the solidification of the metal.

The specific composition of cerium aluminum alloys can vary depending on the application and desired properties. Different alloying elements and processing techniques may be used to achieve particular performance characteristics.

It’s important to note that while cerium-aluminum alloys have many advantages, the properties and applications of such alloys can be complex and vary depending on the specific composition and processing conditions. As with any material or alloy, thorough testing and evaluation are necessary to ensure that the desired properties are achieved for a given application.