Stainless steel is a steel alloy that contains 10.5% chromium with or without other alloying elements and has a maximum of 1.2% carbon by mass. It is mainly known for its corrosion resistance properties, which can be enhanced by adding nickel and molybdenum. Its ability to resist corrosion makes the alloy “stainless.” The resistance of the metallic alloys in stainless steel to corrosion is based on passivation. The prevalence and stability of passivation depend on the condition that Fe-Cr alloy must have a minimum chromium content of about 10.5% by weight. Chromium forms a thin layer of chromium oxide on the steel surface. It forms a “passive layer” that acts as a reliable protective coating for stainless steel. The passive layer has self-healing capability. The presence of chromium also hardens and then toughens stainless steel. Continue reading “Four Commonly Used Alloying Elements in Stainless Steel”
