What property is primarily associated with Stainless Steel?

Stainless steel is primarily known for its excellent corrosion resistance, which is one of its most significant properties. This characteristic is largely due to the presence of chromium, which forms a passive layer of chromium oxide on the surface of the steel when exposed to oxygen. This layer protects the underlying metal from moisture and other corrosive elements, making stainless steel ideal for applications in environments that are prone to corrosion, such as kitchen equipment, medical devices, and chemical processing tools.

While stainless steel can also exhibit high tensile strength and low thermal conductivity, and some varieties may have good moldability, these properties are not as defining as its corrosion resistance. The ability to resist rust and deterioration over time under various environmental conditions is what sets stainless steel apart from other types of steel and makes it a preferred material in many industries.