Heavy metals is improved with the addition of thorium. Tellurium is added to copper and steel alloys to improve their machinability; and to lead to make it harder and more acid-resistant. The biocidal effects of some heavy metals have been known since antiquity. Platinum, osmium, copper, ruthenium, and other heavy metals, including arsenic, are used in anti-cancer treatments, or have shown potential. Antimony (anti-protozoal), bismuth (anti-ulcer), gold (anti-arthritic), and iron (anti-malarial) are also important in medicine. Copper, zinc, silver, gold, or mercury are used in antiseptic formulations; small amounts of some heavy metals are used to control algal growth in, for example,
Institute of Cast Metals Engineers Institute of Cast Metals Engineers The Institute of Cast Metals Engineers (ICME), originally the British Foundrymen's Association is a British professional engineering institution founded in 1904. It publishes the Foundry Trade Journal, which was established in 1902. It was founded as the British Foundrymen's Association in 1904. It was given a Royal Charter on 25 November 1921. On 11 October 2000, it changed its name to the Institute of Cast Metals Engineers. It is licensed by the Engineering Council to assess candidates for inclusion on its Register of professional Engineers and Technicians. The Institute's address is ICME Metalforming Centre, 47