Steel is an alloy primarily composed of iron and carbon, with carbon content typically ranging from 0.03% to 2%. Other elements such as manganese, silicon, sulfur, and phosphorus may also be present in small amounts to enhance its properties. This versatile metal has a long history of use and is one of the most important materials in modern society.

Steel possesses several remarkable characteristics. Firstly, it offers high strength and durability, making it suitable for applications that require load-bearing capacity. Structures like buildings, bridges, and machinery rely on steel’s strength to maintain integrity. Secondly, different types of steel can be tailored to have a wide range of properties through heat treatment and alloying. For example, stainless steel contains chromium and nickel, which give it excellent corrosion resistance, enabling its use in applications where exposure to moisture and chemicals is common, such as in kitchen appliances and chemical processing equipment.

Moreover, steel has good formability. It can be easily shaped through various metalworking processes like forging, rolling, and machining. This allows manufacturers to create complex components with precision, meeting the diverse needs of different industries. Additionally, steel is highly recyclable. Recycling steel not only conserves natural resources but also reduces energy consumption and environmental impact compared to producing new steel from raw materials.