ferriijzeren

Ferriijzeren is a Dutch term used in metallurgy to denote iron-based materials in which the ferrite phase is the dominant constituent of the microstructure. The term combines ferri- from ferrum (iron) with ijzeren, the Dutch word for iron-containing. In Dutch technical literature, it is often used interchangeably with ferritic materials, including ferritic steels, as opposed to austenitic or martensitic alloys.

The defining phase in ferrijzeren materials is alpha-iron, or ferrite, a body-centered cubic lattice stable at room temperature in low-carbon iron. Alloying elements such as chromium or molybdenum may be added to stabilize the ferritic structure and improve properties, particularly corrosion resistance in ferritic stainless steels.

Key properties include good ductility, magnetic behavior, and generally lower carbon content than pearlitic or martensitic steels. Ferritic steels typically offer good weldability and thermal conductivity, with corrosion resistance dependent on alloy composition. Cast-iron matrices with ferritic microstructure are used where machinability and cost are factors, sometimes featuring graphite or other phases.

Applications include construction components, piping, automotive parts, and cookware where formability and corrosion resistance are valued.

See also: ferrite; ferritic stainless steel; iron-carbon phase diagram.