The formation of pearlite in steels

In this treatment of the pearlite reaction, the classical approach of the coupled growth of ferrite and cementite into austenite controlled by carbon diffusion is outlined. This is followed by a consideration of the growth of pearlite in ternary systems and evidence is presented for both partitioned and non-partitioned growth. Attention is paid to the various reactions which can occur at lower transformation temperatures which compete with conventional pearlite. Finally, a brief section on the deformation of pearlite is included together with some suggestions for future areas of research. © 2012 Woodhead Publishing Limited. All rights reserved.