A composition of matter comprising a mass of ferrous scrap pieces compressed together in random orientation forming a network of interlocking pieces has been prepared. This ferrous metal network is impregnated with rare earth metals in amount from 15% to 80% by weight of the impregnated body. The rare earth metal impregnated body is useful for treating high melting metals, particularly to deoxidize or desulfurize steel and to produce nodular iron.
A treatment agent for use in the production of vermicular graphite cast iron is formed by compacting a mixture comprising particulate iron, magnesium, titanium and rare earth.
Malleability and resistance to cracking of alloys containing nickel, copper, sulfur, etc. are enhanced through the co-presence of cerium and magnesium.
