Materials and their applications key terms

Composite materials

Materials made from two or more constituent materials with significantly different physical or chemical properties.

Biodegradable plastics

Plastics that can decompose naturally in the environment, reducing pollution.

Tensile Strength

The maximum amount of tensile (stretching) stress that a material can withstand before failure.

Thermal Conductivity

The ability of a material to conduct heat, which is crucial in applications where temperature control is important.

Corrosion Resistance

The ability of a material to withstand deterioration due to chemical reactions with its environment, particularly moisture and acids.

Strength-to-Weight Ratio

A measure of the strength of a material relative to its weight, important for applications where minimizing weight is critical while maintaining structural integrity.

Tensile Strength

The maximum amount of tensile (stretching) stress that a material can withstand before failure.

Cost Analysis

The process of evaluating the costs associated with a product or project to determine its feasibility and profitability.

Thermoplastic

A type of plastic that becomes soft when heated and hardens upon cooling, allowing for reshaping.

Composite

A material made from two or more different materials that, when combined, produce a material with enhanced properties.

Alloy

A mixture of two or more metals, or a metal and another element, which enhances properties like strength and corrosion resistance.

Manufactured boards

Engineered wood products made from wood fibers, particles, or veneers, such as MDF and plywood, used for furniture and construction.

Tensile Strength

The resistance of a material to breaking under tension.

Toughness

The ability of a material to absorb energy and deform without fracturing.