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Material Selection

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May 1, 2024 Updated May 9, 2025 30 minute read

Material selection is the systematic process of choosing a material for a specific engineering application. This decision-making process is fundamental to nearly every field of engineering and product design, as the chosen material dictates the performance, lifespan, cost, and even the environmental impact of a product. It involves evaluating the properties of various materials against the requirements of a particular design, considering factors such as mechanical strength, thermal stability, chemical resistance, and manufacturability. The goal is to identify the optimal material that meets all functional demands while remaining economically viable and, increasingly, environmentally responsible.

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Reading list

We've selected 11 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Material Selection.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the mechanical properties of materials. It covers topics such as elasticity, plasticity, fracture, and fatigue. The book is written by a leading expert in the field.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of composite materials science and engineering. It covers topics such as the synthesis, characterization, and properties of composites. The book is written by a leading expert in the field.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of materials for biomedical applications. It covers topics such as the properties and performance of materials used in medical devices and implants. The book is written by two leading experts in the field.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of materials for energy. It covers topics such as the properties and performance of materials used in energy conversion and storage devices. The book is written by a leading expert in the field.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of materials for electronics. It covers topics such as the properties and performance of materials used in electronic devices. The book is written by a leading expert in the field.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the materials used in engineering applications. It covers topics such as the properties of metals, ceramics, polymers, and composites.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of polymer science and technology. It covers topics such as the synthesis, characterization, and properties of polymers. The book is written by a leading expert in the field.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of ceramic materials science and engineering. It covers topics such as the synthesis, characterization, and properties of ceramics. The book is written by two leading experts in the field.
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