What is the composition of misch metal?
ChemistryClass 10CBSEAnswered 28 May 2026
Answer
Misch metal is an alloy of rare earth elements (lanthanides), primarily used in lighter flints and the steel industry.
Composition:
| Component | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Cerium (Ce) | ~50% |
| Lanthanum (La) | ~25% |
| Neodymium (Nd) | ~15% |
| Other lanthanides + Iron | ~10% |
- Name comes from German Mischmetall ("mixed metal").
- It is pyrophoric sparks when struck, used in cigarette lighter flints.
- Added to steel to improve high-temperature strength.
Misch metal is a lanthanide alloy composed mainly of cerium (~50%) and lanthanum (~25%), known for its spark-producing pyrophoric property.