The Reaction between lron and Water in the Absence of Oxygen

The reaction between pure iron and oxygen‐free water has been investigated at 25°, 60°, and 300°C. At room temperature, the primary product of reaction appears to be ; no evidence was found to indicate the presence of . Formation of , however, occurs readily in the iron‐water system at both 60° and 300deg;C. The possibility that this is produced via formation and subsequent decomposition of is discussed; the conclusion is reached that the mechanism of formation of from the reaction of iron and water cannot be decided definitely at this time.