Modifying effect of BSK-2 barium–strontium carbonate in cast-iron production

Failure to successfully interpret experimental data regarding the modification of metals and alloys suggests the need for nonclassical approaches. A quantum-mechanical theory of the influence of components in BSK-2 modifier (barium–strontium carbonate) on its metallic properties complements the classical theory of heterogeneous nucleation. The uniform influence of materials, vibration, and ultrasound on the metallic melt is associated with the appearance of Friedel oscillations. The nucleation process in the metallic melt is characterized on the basis of the physics of contact potential differences. The modifying effect of ultrasmall inclusions is explained on the basis of free-electron theory.