AQA A-level Design and Technology: Classification of Materials

AQA A-Level Design and Technology: Classification of Materials

This tutorial will explore the essential classification of materials for product design. We'll delve into various categories, highlighting their properties, applications, and how they meet specific design requirements.

1. Metals

• Ferrous Metals:
  • Properties: Strong, durable, magnetic, good conductors of heat and electricity.
  • Examples: Steel, iron, cast iron.
  • Applications: Structural components, tools, machinery, construction.
• Non-Ferrous Metals:
  • Properties: Often lighter, resistant to corrosion, varying levels of conductivity.
  • Examples: Aluminum, copper, brass, bronze, titanium.
  • Applications: Aircraft, electrical wiring, decorative items, surgical implants.
• Alloys:
  • Properties: Combination of metals with enhanced properties.
  • Examples: Stainless steel (iron, chromium, nickel), brass (copper, zinc), bronze (copper, tin).
  • Applications: Wide range, depending on the alloy composition and desired properties.

2. Woods

• Hardwoods:
  • Properties: Dense, strong, durable, often expensive.
  • Examples: Oak, mahogany, walnut.
  • Applications: Furniture, flooring, boat building, high-end construction.
• Softwoods:
  • Properties: Lighter, less expensive, often less durable.
  • Examples: Pine, spruce, cedar.
  • Applications: Construction, framing, paper production.
• Manufactured Boards:
  • Properties: Engineered products with specific properties and cost-effectiveness.
  • Examples: Plywood, MDF, chipboard, OSB.
  • Applications: Furniture, construction, packaging.

3. Polymers

• Thermoplastics:
  • Properties: Can be repeatedly heated and reshaped.
  • Examples: Polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), acrylic.
  • Applications: Packaging, bottles, pipes, textiles, toys.
• Thermosets:
  • Properties: Once cured, cannot be melted and reshaped.
  • Examples: Epoxy resin, polyester resin, Bakelite.
  • Applications: Strong, rigid components, adhesives, coatings.
• Elastomers:
  • Properties: Flexible, elastic, able to stretch and return to their original shape.
  • Examples: Rubber, silicone, polyurethane.
  • Applications: Tires, seals, gaskets, clothing.

4. Papers and Boards

• Properties: Relatively inexpensive, readily available, versatile.
• Examples: Paper, cardboard, corrugated cardboard.
• Applications: Packaging, printing, writing, insulation.

5. Composites

• Properties: Combination of two or more materials with enhanced properties.
• Examples: Fiberglass (glass fibers in a polymer matrix), carbon fiber (carbon fibers in a polymer matrix), concrete (cement, aggregate, water).
• Applications: Aircraft parts, sporting equipment, construction.

6. Smart Materials

• Properties: Respond to environmental stimuli (e.g., temperature, light, pressure).
• Examples: Shape memory alloys, piezoelectric materials, photochromic materials.
• Applications: Sensors, actuators, adaptive structures.

7. Modern Materials

• Properties: Emerging materials with unique properties and potential applications.
• Examples: Graphene, aerogels, nanocomposites.
• Applications: Electronics, energy storage, lightweight construction.

Important Considerations:

• Material Properties: Strength, stiffness, durability, conductivity, thermal properties, aesthetic qualities, cost, and environmental impact are crucial factors.
• Design Requirements: Consider the intended use, functional requirements, environmental conditions, and user needs.
• Sustainability: Choose materials that are responsibly sourced, recyclable, or have a low environmental footprint.

By understanding the classification and properties of materials, designers can make informed decisions to create innovative and effective products. This knowledge is essential for success in AQA A-Level Design and Technology.