Raudkarbiide

Raudkarbiide, also known as iron carbide, is a chemical compound with the general formula FexCy, where x and y are integers. It is an intermetallic compound formed between iron and carbon. The most common forms are cementite (Fe3C) and epsilon carbide (Fe2.4C). Cementite is a hard and brittle phase found in steel and cast iron, playing a crucial role in determining their mechanical properties. Epsilon carbide is a less stable phase that can form under specific conditions, often at lower temperatures or pressures.

The properties of iron carbides are highly dependent on their specific composition and crystallographic structure. Cementite, for instance, is known for its high hardness, high tensile strength, and relatively low ductility. This brittleness makes it susceptible to fracture under stress. Epsilon carbide, on the other hand, is generally considered less hard and more ductile than cementite.

Iron carbides are formed during the heat treatment of iron-carbon alloys. Their presence and distribution significantly influence the microstructure and performance of steels. They can also be found in some industrial catalysts and are a subject of research for potential applications in materials science due to their unique magnetic and mechanical characteristics. The exact phase diagram and transformations involving iron carbides are complex and have been extensively studied in metallurgy.