Stainless steel is a alloy of Iron with at least 10.5% Chromium. Chromium creates a slight layer of oxide on the surface of the steel known as the 'inactive layer'. This keeps any further erosion of the surface. Expanding the measure of Chromium gives an expanded imperviousness to consumption.

Stainless steel likewise contains fluctuating measures of Carbon, Silicon and Manganese. Different components, for example, Nickel and Molybdenum might be added to confer other valuable properties, for example, improved formability and expanded corrosion resistance.