‘Misch metal' is widely used in the manufacture of which of the following ?

Misch metal is a well-known alloy consisting of rare-earth elements, primarily cerium (about 50%) and lanthanum (about 25%), with smaller amounts of neodymium and praseodymium [t4][t6]. It is highly pyrophoric, meaning it produces sparks when struck or scratched. This unique property makes it the primary material used in the manufacture of 'flints' for cigarette lighters [t1][t2]. Historically, it has been used for decades in this capacity because it is easier to produce as a mixed alloy than as individual pure rare-earth metals [t1][t3]. When alloyed with iron (ferrocerium), its spark-producing efficiency increases, ensuring reliability in ignition devices [t4]. While rare earths have diverse applications in magnets and catalysts, the specific use of mischmetal as a bulk alloy is most iconic in the lighter industry [t3][t7].

Sources

1. [1] https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/engineering/heavy-rare-earth
2. [2] https://geobus.st-andrews.ac.uk/files/2018/02/Rare_Earth_Elements_profile.pdf
3. [3] https://www.ga.gov.au/bigobj/GA19657.pdf