Nucleating agents play a crucial role in the solidification process of metals. When metals cool and solidify from a liquid state, nucleating agents help initiate the formation of solid crystals by providing a surface for new crystal growth to start. This results in more uniform and smaller crystals, which can improve the mechanical properties of the metal, such as strength, hardness, and ductility.
Nucleating agents can also help control the solidification process by promoting the formation of a specific crystal structure, such as a desired phase or grain orientation. This is important for achieving the desired properties in the final metal product.
Overall, nucleating agents are essential in metal solidification processes as they help control the microstructure and properties of the final metal product.