If a magnet sticks to it, it's some sort of iron. If the magnet doesn't, it's some sort of aluminium alloy. Iron you can stick weld, using special cast iron rods of 3.2 or 4mm diameter, should do your chair ok, or braze it. Some alloys such as diecast do not weld, but if yours is cast ali then there's a chance to TIG weld it.
Chris P.Duck
March 2010