The hardness of steel is enhanced by carbon through a process called carbonization. By introducing carbon atoms into the iron lattice of steel, interstitial solid solutions are formed, resulting in distortion of the lattice. This distortion hinders the easy sliding of iron atoms, thereby increasing resistance to deformation and enhancing the hardness of the steel. The strength and hardness of steel are further enhanced by increasing the carbon content, but only up to a certain limit. Nonetheless, excessive carbon can render the steel brittle, thus it is crucial to strike a balance to attain optimal hardness without compromising other properties of the steel.
Carbon contributes to the hardness of steel through a process known as carbonization. When carbon atoms are introduced into the iron lattice of steel, they create interstitial solid solutions, causing the lattice to become distorted. This distortion prevents the iron atoms from sliding past each other easily, thereby increasing the resistance to deformation and making the steel harder. Increasing the carbon content in steel increases the strength and hardness, up to a certain limit. However, excessive carbon can also make the steel brittle, so it is important to find the right balance to achieve optimal hardness without compromising other properties of the steel.
Carbon contributes to the hardness of steel by forming strong chemical bonds with iron atoms, which results in the formation of carbides. These carbides create obstacles to dislocation movement within the metal lattice, making it more difficult for atoms to shift and deform. As a result, the presence of carbon increases the strength and hardness of steel.
