Cementite

Cementite is the name of an intermetallic compound in steel alloys which has the chemical formula Fe3C. It is important to note that Cementite is a phase which has a specific chemical formula unlike most phases which have ranges of chemical composition. Cementite is a hard brittle phase and steels containing high proportions of this phase will have increased strength/hardness but lower ductility.

Associated terms: Face Centred Cubic, Ferrite, Austenite, Pearlite, Intermetallic Compound, Phase