Thickness (number of layers) of the oxide is the key factor. Different thicknesses produce different scattering or interference.lightarrow said:If you heat inox steel in presence of air, up to a specific temperature, you get a yellow colour of the metal surface; increasing the temperature it becomes red; still increasing, blue.
Is it due to the formation of oxide layers of different thickness? Which effect is responsible of the colour?
Astronuc said:Thickness (number of layers) of the oxide is the key factor. Different thicknesses produce different scattering or interference.
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The color change in inox steel when heated is caused by a process called oxidation. This is when the iron atoms on the surface of the steel react with oxygen in the air to form iron oxide, also known as rust. The amount of oxygen present and the temperature of the steel can affect the color of the oxide layer formed.
Inox steel turns blue when heated due to a process called tempering. This is when the steel is heated to a specific temperature and then cooled, which changes the arrangement of the atoms in the steel. The blue color is caused by the formation of a thin layer of iron oxide on the surface of the steel.
Yes, the color of inox steel can be controlled when heated by adjusting the temperature and duration of the heating process. Different temperatures and durations can result in different colors, such as blue, gold, or even purple. This is commonly used in decorative applications for inox steel.
The color change in inox steel due to heating is not reversible. Once the steel has been heated and the oxide layer has formed, it cannot be removed without damaging the steel surface. However, the process can be repeated to achieve a different color if desired.
The color of inox steel does not significantly affect its properties. However, the formation of an oxide layer on the surface can provide some protection against corrosion. Additionally, the heating process may alter the hardness and strength of the steel, depending on the temperature and duration used.