Performance characteristics of materials key terms

Ferrous metals

Metals that contain iron, which are typically magnetic and prone to rusting.

Non-ferrous metals

Metals that do not contain iron, which are generally more resistant to corrosion and lighter than ferrous metals.

Extruded forms

Shapes created by forcing molten polymer through a die to produce continuous lengths of material, such as rods or profiles.

Polymer powder

Finely ground polymer particles used in processes like powder coating or 3D printing.

Recyclability

The ability of a material to be processed and reused in the production of new products.

Elasticity

The ability of a material to return to its original shape after being deformed.

Thermoplastic

A type of plastic that becomes soft when heated and hard when cooled, allowing for reshaping.

Thermoset

A type of plastic that irreversibly hardens when cured, typically through heat or chemical reaction.

Elastomer

A polymer that has elastic properties, allowing it to stretch and return to its original shape.

Non-toxic

A material that does not pose a risk of harm to human health or the environment.

Elastomer

A type of polymer that is elastic and can stretch significantly while returning to its original shape.

Ergonomics

The study of people's efficiency in their working environment, focusing on designing products that fit the user’s needs.

Elastomer

A type of polymer that exhibits elastic properties, allowing it to return to its original shape after deformation.

Biodegradable Polymer

A polymer that can be broken down by microorganisms into natural substances like water, carbon dioxide, and biomass.

Biodegradable Polymer

A type of polymer that can be broken down by microorganisms into natural substances.

Degradation

The process by which materials break down into simpler substances due to environmental factors.

Biodegradation

The process by which organic substances are broken down by living organisms, typically microorganisms, into simpler, non-toxic substances.

Compostable

Refers to materials that can break down into natural elements in a compost environment, leaving no toxicity in the soil.

Biodegradable Polymer

A type of polymer that can decompose naturally in the environment, reducing plastic waste.

Composite Material

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

Composite Material

A material made from two or more constituent materials with significantly different physical or chemical properties, designed to achieve enhanced performance.

Molding

A manufacturing process that involves shaping a material by pouring it into a mold, allowing it to take on the desired form.

Smart materials

Materials that can change their properties in response to external stimuli, such as temperature, light, or moisture.

Reinforced concrete

Concrete that is strengthened by the inclusion of steel reinforcement bars (rebar) to improve its tensile strength.

Smart Material

A material that can change its properties in response to external stimuli.

Shape Memory Alloy

An alloy that can return to its original shape after deformation when exposed to a specific temperature.

Smart Materials

Materials that can respond to external stimuli such as temperature, light, or pressure.

Thermochromic Materials

Materials that change color in response to temperature changes.

Shape Memory Alloy (SMA)

A material that can return to its original shape after being deformed when subjected to a specific temperature.

Thermochromatic Pigment

A pigment that changes color in response to temperature variations.