Dawn is the $h!t...
I recently changed the spark plugs in my truck. I got grease all over one of my favorite T-shirts. I figured it was ruined. My wife suggested I use Dawn dish liquid.
So I drizzled it all over the shirt then rubbed it into the fabric. I tossed it into the washer with hot water and it came out good as new.
As far as the Metallurgy: Dude, It's a pot... That's what the stuff is made for.
Good luck with it.