(3) chromium and nickel Explanation: In metallurgy, stainless steel is defined as a steel alloy with a minimum of 10.5 per cent to 11 per cent chromium content by mass. There are different types of stainless steels: when nickel is added, for instance, the austenite structure of iron is stabilized. This crystal structure makes such steels virtually nonmagnetic and less brittle at low temperatures. For greater hardness and strength, more carbon is added.