Noun: martensite 'maa(r)-tun,zIt
- A solid solution of carbon in alpha-iron that is formed when steel is cooled so rapidly that the change from austenite to pearlite is suppressed
"The formation of martensite is crucial for producing hard, strong steel"
Derived forms: martensites
Type of: primary solid solution, solid solution
Part of: quenched steel
Encyclopedia: Martensite