Minerals and Metals in Ancient India v1.c27.4

v1.c27.4

Carburized iron showing pearlite and ferrite grains was known in ancient India as early as 1200 BC, but this is not accepted as equivalent to modern steel. A high percentage of carbon results in the cementite (Fe₃C) phase which contributes to hardness (BHN 600+) as well as brittleness. Bronson (1986) referred to the ‘dangerous brittleness’ of the wootz weapons. The implement can be made ductile by careful forging at a not-too-high temperature of 650-850°C when the coarse cementite grains are compressed and elongated in one direction, surrounded by pearlite and ferrite matrix.