Austenite is a solid solution of carbon in iron, typically found in steel at high temperatures. It is named after the British scientist Sir William Chandler Roberts-Austen, who studied its properties. Austenite is non-magnetic and has a face-centered cubic crystal structure, which contributes to its strength and ductility. This phase of steel is stable at temperatures above 727°C (1,340°F) and can hold a significant amount of carbon, enhancing its hardness when cooled. Upon cooling, austenite can transform into other microstructures, such as martensite or ferrite, which influence the mechanical properties of the final steel product.