A method of protecting molten magnesium and its alloys from the action of air

摘要

Molten magnesium and alloys rich in magnesium are protected from the action of air by applying to the free surface of the melting or molten material, practically anhydrous solid organic substances, e.g. asphalt, casein, horn meal, or sugar, which combust in the air with the formation of a froth inert to magnesium, in sufficient amount to yield, on carbonizing, a permanent hard protective crust over the entire surface of the melt. Chlorine-free inorganic compounds of higher specific gravity, such as fluorspar or sintered magnesite, may be added to the organic substances.