Properties of other materials

This lesson covers: 

  1. Properties of polymers
  2. Properties of ceramics
  3. Properties of composites

Properties of polymers

Polymers is another name for plastics.

They have many useful properties making them suitable for a wide range of uses.

Colourful plastic building blocks illustrating the properties of polymers such as flexibility and mouldability.
  • They are electrical and thermal insulators - energy does not transfer through them easily.
  • They are flexible - they bend instead of breaking.
  • They have low density - they are lightweight for their strength.
  • They are easily moulded - they can be shaped as needed.

Properties of ceramics

Ceramics include glass, porcelain, and bone china.

They are made by heating substances like clay to a high temperature.

Collection of ceramic pots and vessels in various shapes and sizes.
  • They are electrical and thermal insulators - energy does not transfer through them easily.
  • They are brittle - they break instead of bending.
  • They are stiff - they can withstand strong forces.

Properties of composite materials

Composites are made by combining two or more materials. This produces a material with enhanced properties.

Fibreglass

Boat made of fibreglass cruising on water.
  • Fibreglass consists of glass fibres embedded in plastic.
  • It combines the strength of glass with the low density of plastic.
  • This makes it useful for equipment like boats.

Concrete

Concrete building under construction with visible layers and supports.
  • Concrete contains gravel and sand embedded in cement.
  • It can withstand high compression stresses.
  • This makes it an ideal building material.