Understanding Material Properties: Metals, Ceramics, and Biological Sources

Features: Mechanical resistance, a larger amount of carbon, increased hardness and strength. The most resistant are the beam, shaft, and power transmission systems. Softer elements are used for cold applications and should be addressed. In alloy steels, other factors can yield the best resultant mechanical or chemical properties. Stainless steel incorporates chrome, offering high resistance to corrosion.

Non-ferrous Alloys

• Bronze: An alloy of copper with tin. It is resistant to copper and does not corrode, possessing mechanical properties similar to steel.
• Brass: Formed with copper and zinc. This alloy offers higher hardness and ductility than pure copper.
• Duralumin: Aluminum alloys with other metals. The most common are copper, magnesium, manganese, and zinc.

Ceramics

Material: Ceramic is a nonmetallic mineral, including glass and construction materials. Ceramics are made from clay, which hardens to rigidity. They are very resistant to high temperatures and chemical agents but are fragile. Different varieties of clay provide diverse ceramic properties. Applications include structures, pottery, and refractory objects.

Construction Materials

Pasty mixtures with cements are notable. They harden and adhere with stiffness once setting is complete, forming concrete. Portland cement is commonly used.

Glass

Glass is a substance formed from silica melted at high temperatures. It is amorphous; heating can return it to a liquid form. Glass is easily recyclable, usually clear and cold, and is fragile. Applications include containers, insulation, windows, doors, and optics.

Materials of Biological Origin

These materials are obtained from plants or animals and are renewable.

Plant Sources

• Paper: Made from cellulose fiber sheets. It is less dense and soft, used for books, notebooks, and is recycled.
• Wood Pulp and Composites: Lignin, obtained from tree trunks, is a light, strong material used for furniture, doors, light appliances, and thermal insulation. It is renewable.
• Textile Fibers:
  • Cotton: Filaments obtained from the seed capsule of the cotton plant, used for fabric.
  • Linen: A textile fiber obtained from the filaments of the flax stem, known for high resistance.
  • Jute: From plants in tropical wet regions, used for sacks and ropes.
  • Hemp: Fibers obtained from the bark of the hemp plant, used for tarpaulins and ship sails.

Animal Sources

• Wool: Obtained from animals like sheep. It is elastic, lightweight, and a thermal insulator.
• Silk: Produced by the silkworm. It is shiny and soft, but deteriorates easily and is expensive.
• Leather: Formed from collagen fibers in animal skin. It is tough and used for gloves, wallets, luggage, and clothing.