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Enhancement of materials
Official AQA section 3.1.3.
4
Objectives
10
Flashcards
10
Questions
88 min
Study time
AqaA LevelDesign And Technology Product DesignTechnical principles
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Syllabus checklist
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4 objective pages available
Enhancement of materials4 objectives
- Students are expected to be able to describe enhancement methods for given materials and explain their suitability for specific product applications. Understand the appropriate use of materials, including polymers, composites, woods and based on their physical properties. Polymer enhancement.
- The use of additives to enhance properties, including: • UV stabilisers to prolong the life of polymers • bio-batch materials to encourage biodegradability.
- Students should be familiar with how additives are used in specific polymer products, eg patio furniture, food packaging and carrier bags. Wood enhancement The combining of natural timber with resins and lamination to give enhanced properties, eg increased strength and stability. Enhancing timber products with preservatives, finishes and coatings. Metal enhancement.
- Students should be aware of heat treatment methods of enhancing metals, including: • case hardening • hardening and tempering.
Key terms
Composite MaterialLaminationUV stabilisersBio-batch materialsComposite materialsPreservativesQuenchingCarburizing
Exam tips
- Use specific examples in your answers: When discussing material enhancements, always provide specific examples of materials and their applications.
- Focus on material properties: When discussing additives, clearly link them to the specific properties they enhance.
Common mistakes
- Confusing composites with alloys: Remember that composites are made from different materials that retain their properties, while alloys are mixtures of metals that form a new material.
- Confusing UV stabilisers with other additives: Remember that UV stabilisers specifically protect against UV light, while other additives serve different purposes.
Practice preview
- Which of the following is a common method for enhancing the properties of polymers?
- Explain how the enhancement of wood through lamination can improve its performance in furniture design.
- Evaluate the suitability of using a composite material, such as fiberglass, in the production of sports equipment.
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