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Why is ferronickel useful in steelmaking?
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nickel processing
Nickel briquettes.
Ferronickel is a crude alloy of iron and nickel that serves as a vital alloying agent in the production of steel.12
In the context of nickel processing, laterite ores are often smelted to produce crude ferronickel. After undergoing refining to remove impurities such as silicon, carbon, and phosphorus, this material is marketed to steel manufacturers. Its primary utility lies in its role as a source of nickel for creating various types of steel, including stainless steels, which rely on nickel to enhance properties like corrosion resistance, toughness, and strength.2345