The effect of Ce on the hydrogen content and liquid structure of Al–16% Si melts

The effects of small additions of cerium (Ce) on the hydrogen content and the viscosity of Al–16% Si melts have been studied by using Hyscan II and a viscometer. The experimental results showed that the hydrogen content increased with an increase of temperature, but decreased with an increase of the Ce level. The atomic densities of Al–16% Si melts containing 0%, 0.05%, and 0.15% Ce were measured and calculated, and the relationship between the hydrogen content and the liquid structure of Al–16% Si melts with and without Ce additions was investigated. According to the test results and analysis, it was concluded that a melt structural change caused a change of the hydrogen content when Ce was added, and the viscosity change further verified the structural change.