Period 4 element in period 4, between chromium and iron. Manganese is often found free in nature, but is also found in combination with iron. Manganese, like chromium before it, is an important component in stainless steel, preventing the iron from rusting. Manganese is also often used in pigments, again like chromium. Manganese is also poisonous; if enough is inhaled, it can cause irreversible neurological damage. Iron (Fe) is an element in period 4, between manganese and cobalt. Iron is probably the most well-known element in period 4, being the most common element in the earth and a major component of steel. Iron-56
Stainless steel to produce Further information can be obtained on the websites of most producers. An example is provided here World stainless steel production figures re published every year by ISSF Overall stainless steel production (flat and long products): The stainless steel production in China accounts for more than 50% of the world production in 2017Breakdown of production by families of stainless steels in 2017: This breakdown is quite stable over the years Stainless steel is used for buildings for both practical and aesthetic reasons. Stainless steel was in vogue during the art deco period. The most famous example of this is