Classification of Materials Flashcards
The 4 main material types are…
Metals, polymers, ceramics, composites
The different types of metals are…
Ferrous and non-ferrous
The different types of composites are…
Polymer matrix, metal matrix and sandwich
The different types of polymers are…
Elastomers, thermosets and thermoplastics
Metal typical properties
Stiff, strong, ductile, resistant to fracture, conductors of heat and electricity, opaque.
Ceramic typical properties
Stiff, strong, hard, brittle, liable to fracture, insulative, typically more resistant to harsh working environments
Plastic typical properties
Low density, very ductile and pliable, inert/unreactive, but do soften under moderate temperatures, low conductivity and nonmagnetic. Sitffness and strength on a per-mass basis comparable to ceramics and metals, but not otherwise.
Fibreglass composite properties
Stiff, strong, flexible and ductile, low density
Why would it not be possible to make a summary of typical composite properties?
As composites are generally made for a specific purpose to fill a specific gap, and can thus range dramatically in their properties
