An Encyclopaedia of Indian Archaeology v1.c21.s9.18

v1.c21.s9.18

Wrought iron provides cheaper metal for extensive and general use. However the real impact of iron technology was achieved with accidental carburization brought about by heating and reheating of wrought iron objects in a charcoal fire during forging. This resulted in partial though uneven conversion of iron objects into those of steel. This practice known as carburization or case-hardening came into vogue during the NBPW phase and could replace bronze.