Introduction
Humans have been refining and working with metals since 7000 BCE, and making it one of the oldest modern practices. However, previous rudimentary procedures have been since replaced by more advanced methods and materials. As Refractory materials were perfected, higher forge temperatures were reached, eventually leading to the first Iron casting in 513 BCE. This was revolutionary considering iron’s melting point of 1528 degrees celsius.
I chose metal refining and casting because metal objects and their creation processes fascinate me. I have recently become enamored with forge technology, and casting methods. Because Aluminum has one of the lower melting temperatures of the common earth metals, I decided it would be the best material to make my first cast with. Casting is still the most common metal production method humans have used in industry. Since Aluminum is so common, I used empty soda cans as a source of aluminum, as well as a dented aluminum pot.
Composition of ...
Main Chemicals, Compounds, Components
Chemistry's Role
Resources
About the Author
Alex Campbell - Junior at Billings Senior High