Performance Characteristics Of Materials

The following page of notes will cover:

  • Physical characteristics (Physical properties)
  • Mechanical characteristics (Mechanical properties)


Physical characteristics

Electrical conductivity:

The Property that lets electrical current flow through a material


Diagram of shape dimensions

Thermal conductivity:

The Property that lets thermal energy flow through a material


Diagram of shape dimensions

Biodegradability:

A material's ability to break down over time as a result of biological activity (being broken down by microorganisms)


Diagram of shape dimensions

Chemical resistance:

A material's ability to withstand chemical attack without being broken down



Corrosion resistance:

A material's ability to withstand rusting from water without being broken down


Mechanical characteristics

Strength (Tensile, Compressive, Torsional, Shear, Bending):

The ability allowing a material to resist forces from all directions (compressive, tensile, bending, shear, torsional).


Diagram of shape dimensions

Elasticity:

The ability allowing an object or material to reassume its normal shape after being stretched or compressed.


Diagram of shape dimensions

Placticity:

A material's ability to be permanently deformed and retain its deformed shape


Diagram of shape dimensions

Malleability:

A materia's ability to be deformed by compression without being torn / cracked.


Diagram of shape dimensions

Ductility:

The ability of a material to be drawn/stretched out thin (usually into wires)


Diagram of shape dimensions

Hardness:

A material's ability to withstand indentation / abrasion / scratching.


Diagram of shape dimensions

Toughness:

A material's ability to absorb impact force without fracture.


Diagram of shape dimensions

Durability:

A material's ability to withstand wear, pressure, and damage.


Diagram of shape dimensions

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