The term materials research is a broad terminology to describe many different areas of research into materials and their properties.
Common Examples of Research Materials Used
- Magnetic, optical and electronic
- Computer materials science
- Polymers
- Composites
- Metal alloys
- Ceramics and glass
This form of science involves the study of the properties of materials and their practical use in such areas as electronics, biodiversity, and manufacturing. For example, what materials are the best types to use for manufacturing aircraft and cars, and how do these compare with other substances? What is best used for constructing computers or conducting electricity? Research is continually taking place around the world to match the most efficient materials to their most practical use.
Why is Material Research Important?
Scientists and subsequently, manufacturers need to best understand the structure of materials as related to their various properties. They can then test out the relative performance of the material and best match the needs of any end product. This will avoid making defective or poor performing products. The structure of various materials can be subdivided into multiple categories, as follows:
- Atomic structure
- Crystallography
- Macrostructure
- Microstructure
- Macrostructure
Each of these if researched correctly will provide a good understanding of the potential properties of a material and what would be the best application for it. Nowadays, scientific processing is applied to the formation of various metals such as steel and bronze, also building materials such as bricks and concrete. All of these products are as a result of materials research done many years ago. Indeed bronze was discovered many thousands of years ago in the Bronze Age. This research is vital to the world's progress.
