Materials and their properties
Understanding Materials and Their Properties
Types of Materials
- Metals – Generally strong, malleable, ductile, heat and electrical conductors, e.g. steel, aluminium, copper.
- Plastics – Typically lightweight, malleable, good insulators, e.g. PVC, ABS, PE.
- Ceramics – Often hard, brittle, heat and electrical insulators, e.g. Glass, clay, porcelain.
- Composites – Made from two or more materials, properties depend on constituent materials, e.g. Fiberglass, carbon fiber composites.
Physical Properties
- Density – Amount of mass in a given volume, affects weight of final product.
- Hardness – Resistance to scratching, wear or indentation.
- Strength – How well the material can withstand an applied force.
- Malleability – Ability to be bent and twisted without breaking.
- Ductility – Ability to be drawn out into a thin wire.
- Thermal Conductivity – Ability to conduct heat.
- Electrical Conductivity – Ability to conduct electricity.
Mechanical Properties
- Elasticity – Ability to return to its original shape after being stretched or compressed.
- Plasticity – Ability to permanently change in shape under force.
- Brittleness – Tendency to snap or crack under force.
- Toughness – Resistance to breaking, bending, or deforming when subjected to stress.
- Resilience – Ability to absorb energy and resist shock without cracking or breaking.
Chemical Properties
- Oxidation Resistance – Ability to resist oxidation or rusting.
- Corrosion Resistance – Resistance to chemical attack, breakdown or degradation.
- Flammability – How easily the material catches fire.
- Biodegradability – Extent to which the material disintegrates over time due to biological activity.
Choices Based on Properties
- Product design and manufacturing involves consideration of these properties.
- Choice of material can affect product cost, usability, durability, and environmental impact.
- Understanding the properties of materials is key to making the correct choice for manufacturing.