Where does carbon go during decarburization in steels?

  • Thread starter Thread starter muskie25
  • Start date Start date
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

During the decarburization of steels at temperatures around 700°C, carbon reacts with atmospheric oxygen or hydrogen, resulting in the formation of carbon oxides. Specifically, carbon can convert to carbon monoxide (CO) or carbon dioxide (CO2) depending on the conditions. At this temperature, CO is typically in a gaseous phase, while CO2 can also exist as a gas. Understanding these reactions is crucial for controlling the decarburization process in heat treatment.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic knowledge of steel heat treatment processes
  • Understanding of chemical reactions involving carbon and oxygen
  • Familiarity with the phases of matter at high temperatures
  • Knowledge of thermodynamics related to gas formation
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the specific reactions of carbon during steel decarburization
  • Study the properties of carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide at elevated temperatures
  • Explore the impact of atmospheric conditions on decarburization rates
  • Learn about heat treatment techniques for controlling carbon content in steels
USEFUL FOR

Materials scientists, metallurgists, and engineers involved in steel production and heat treatment processes will benefit from this discussion.

muskie25
Messages
15
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


I understand that decarburization happens during heat treatment of steels @ 700 C, and that carbon reacts with oxygen or hydrogen that is in the atmosphere. But, where does the carbon go?

Homework Equations


None

The Attempt at a Solution


Does the carbon react with the oxygen and turn into Carbon Oxide like on the surface of the steel? Or does it turn into CO2?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Think. What phase are CO or CO2 in at a temperature of 700°C?
 

Similar threads

Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
6K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
7K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
9K