Analysis of the distribution of trace elements in nodular cast iron by SPM

Abstract Nodular cast iron sample were prepared using normal nodularizing process, in which the antinodularizing elements (As, Al, Pb, Bi, etc.) and the impurity elements (V, Cr, Cu, Ca, etc.) were added respectively in order to research the influence of them on the nodularization of graphite. The nodular graphite was extracted from the nodular cast iron by the electrolytic technique. The distribution of trace elements in nodular and deformed graphite was measured using Scanning Proton Microprobe. Most of the added elements existed in matrix as impurities partly intruded into the graphite. The influence of antinodularizing elements on the nodularization was indirectly executed by Ti. We suggest Ti be one of the most important antinodularizing elements.