The gamma (γ) form of iron, also known as austenite, is a high-temperature allotrope of iron with a face-centered cubic (FCC) crystal structure.

Key characteristics include:

• Crystal Structure: Face-centered cubic (FCC).
• Stability: Stable at high temperatures, typically between 912°C (1674°F) and 1394°C (2541°F). Substech
• Non-magnetic: Austenite is paramagnetic (non-magnetic). AZoM
• Solubility: Has a high solubility for carbon, which is important in the heat treatment of steels.
• Ductility: Generally more ductile and formable compared to other allotropes of iron at room temperature.

Austenite is crucial in the heat treatment processes of steel because its FCC structure allows it to dissolve more carbon than ferrite (α-iron). This property is utilized to manipulate the microstructure and mechanical properties of steel through processes like quenching and tempering.