The process of combining iron with other metals to create a lighter, non-rusting material is called stainless steel. It was not discovered by a single person, but rather developed over time through the efforts of various individuals and companies.

Here's a brief timeline:

* Early 1800s: Scientists began experimenting with adding small amounts of chromium to iron. They noticed that the resulting material resisted corrosion better than pure iron.

* 1869: Robert Forester Mushet patented a process for producing steel with a high carbon content and a small percentage of manganese, making it more durable.

* 1913: Harry Brearley, a British metallurgist, accidentally discovered stainless steel while searching for a material resistant to corrosion for gun barrels. He experimented with adding varying amounts of chromium, nickel, and other elements to iron and found that a mixture of 12-14% chromium produced a highly corrosion-resistant material.

So, while Brearley is often credited with the "discovery" of stainless steel, it was the result of a long process of experimentation and innovation by many individuals.