Martensite
Martensite is a hard, brittle phase of steel that forms when austenite, a softer phase, is rapidly cooled or quenched. This transformation occurs during the cooling process, where carbon atoms become trapped in the iron lattice, resulting in a unique microstructure that enhances hardness.
The presence of martensite significantly affects the mechanical properties of steel, making it suitable for various applications, such as tools and structural components. Its hardness can be adjusted through heat treatment processes, allowing engineers to tailor the material's properties for specific uses.