The aim of this experiment is to:
1. Focus on the cast iron zone in the iron-iron carbide system.
2. Get acquainted with the different types of cast irons, and the differences between them in microstructure, mechanical & physical properties.
3. Study the different microstructures of the different types of cast iron.

Generate your Abstract and line of thought using (some of) the following keywords (use others if possible):
Iron alloys: types, effect of carbon content, Cast iron: types (malleable, gray, white, nodular), properties, formation, microstructure, applications. 

Discuss the following topics in correct language and organized flow of ideas within your introduction:
1. Types of iron alloys: steels, cast iron, effect of carbon content
2. Cast iron: types, formation, microstructure, applications, varieties

Include full details: microscope sketch (name), magnification power, etching solution (composition/concentration), heat treatment specifications (temperature/time) if any.

Three specimens are investigated:
        Gray cast iron
        Nodular cast iron
        Malleable cast iron
Common preparation procedures such as grinding and polishing are done, followed by etching using 3ml of HNO₃ + 100 ml of CH₃OH (methyl alcohol), etched by immersing for 15 seconds.

Required: A "neat" sketch for the viewed microstructures. 
1. Explain the reasons for the names of the cast iron types
2. The effect of the microstructure on the selection of the application (graphite flakes or nodules)
3. List all the useful properties for the various families of cast iron alloys.

--Use (some of) the following pictures (make sure to cite) and comment on them in your lab report

              

Kalpakjian, Serope. Manufacturing Process for Engineering Materials. Addison Wesley, 3^rd Ed., 1997.

Smith, William F. . Principles of Materials Science and Engineering. McGraw Hill, 3^rd Ed., 1996. (p. 128-132)