MSEM Module
MSEM Module
Module 2
Introduction to Materials
Types of materials:
Metals
Non-metals
Polymers
Ceramics
Composites
Density – the amount of mass per unit volume, whether dealing with solid,
liquid, gas you can calculate the mass and volume it takes. Such that lead is
denser than aluminum meaning lead weighs more with the same volume
Melting Point – The melting point is the temperature at which a solid turns
into a liquid. It changes form but still has the same chemical composition.
When ice melts turns into water it is still H2O just different state
Boiling Point – The temperature at which a liquid turns into a gas. Such as
water boils at 100℃
Strength – The ability of a material to withstand an applied force without breaking, failing, or
permanently deforming. Examples are Steel and concrete have high strength as they are used for
building structures which is known to withstand forces without any deformation.
Hardness –ability of the material to resist being scratched or dented. A great example of it is
diamond as it is the hardest known material.
Elasticity – Ability of a material to return to its original shape after being stretched or
compressed. Most observable example of this is rubber band as it has the ability to return to its
original shape
Toughness – The ability of a material to absorb energy and deform without breaking and
fracturing. Example is steel can withstand large amount of stress without cracking or shattering
but will deform but not break.
Brittleness – The tendency of a material to break or shatter easily when subjected to stress
without much deformation. Such as glass is brittle when subjected to stress it shatters and does
not bend.
Stiffness – The resistance of a material to deformation under an applied force. Stiff materials
don’t stretch or bend easily. Such as steel beams are support for a building, it does not easily
bend or deform.
Chemical properties describe how a material interacts with other substances to form new
substances. These properties are concerned with the material's ability to undergo chemical
changes or reactions under certain conditions. To ensure an ideal material is used to a specific
environment.
Reactivity – How a substance reacts with other chemicals. It includes Combustion, materials
interacting with oxygen and heat forming new substances. Such as burning wood creates carbon
dioxide. Also include oxidation and acid based reaction.
Flammability – The ability of a material to catch fire and burn when exposed to heat. Such as
wood, diesel, gas are highly flammable while stone is not.
Acidity/Basicity (pH) – The ability of a material to give or recieve protons (H⁺). Acids have a
pH less than 7, while bases have a pH greater than 7. Vinegar is acidic while soap is basic
Thermal properties describe how a material reacts when exposed to heat or changes in
temperature. As some materials expands, compress, conduct, and resist heat.
Which is important in cookware, building, roads, electronics, jet engines, etc.