cementite

[MichaellaHaw]

a chemical compound that is a constituent of steel and cast iron; very hard and brittle

[Tjalfdyed 0]

A form of iron carbide, FeC, that is a component of steel

[Tayyaba]

Cementite is a hard, brittle compound of iron and carbon, known chemically as iron carbide (Fe3C). It is a component of various types of steel and cast iron and forms from the cooling and solidification of iron and carbon melted together. When viewed under a microscope, it appears as a white and shiny structure. Its characteristics provide strength and hardness to these materials.