An intermetallic compound with the chemical formula Fe3C, more commonly known in metallography as cementite. It forms when carbon exceeds its solubility limit in solid iron, precipitating out as a distinct, extremely hard phase. Its distribution, size, and shape within the softer iron matrix dictate the overall hardness and strength of the steel or iron alloy.
Heard on the job
The heat treatment failed because we cooled it too slowly, allowing massive networks of ferric carbide to form on the grain boundaries.
Also heard as
- cementite
- iron carbide