Light micrograph of 'grey' cast iron in thin section. Cast iron is an alloy of iron and carbon, where the carbon content is 2.5% to 4%. At the high end of this range, the carbon is present as graphite, and forms a lamellar structure within the iron matrix. This is 'grey' cast iron. It is most suitable for applications requiring bulk, may be machined easily and has a hard, durable surface after casting. It has a low strength, however, compared to the lower carbon 'white' cast iron. Interference contrast illumination. Magnification x30 at 35mm size, x60 at 6x7cm size.