Properties and Uses of Iron, Aluminium, Copper and Titanium
Properties and Uses of Iron, Aluminium, Copper and Titanium
Properties and Uses of Metals
Iron
- High strength under compression and tension, making it ideal for structural engineering.
- Malleable and ductile, meaning it can be shaped and bent without breaking.
- Prone to rust when exposed to moist air. The corrosion process oxidises the iron, making it brittle and flaky.
- Used to make steel, an alloy with carbon, which is stronger and less prone to rusting.
Aluminium
- Lightweight, making it ideal for applications such as aircraft where weight is crucial.
- Highly resistant to corrosion due to formation of protective oxide layer.
- Ductile, hence, can be rolled into sheets for packaging and can manufacturing.
- Good electrical conductivity, aluminium wires are used in high-voltage transmissions.
Copper
- Excellent electrical and thermal conductivity making it the metal of choice for wiring and heat exchangers.
- It can be alloyed with tin to make bronze, which is strong and corrosion-resistant.
- Malleable and ductile, hence, it is often used in decorative applications, like jewellery.
Titanium
- Exceptionally high strength-to-weight ratio, importantly used in aircraft and automotive industries.
- Highly resistant to corrosion, must be considered for applications in hostile environments such as marine and chemical industries.
- High melting point makes it suitable for use in jet engines and other high-temperature applications.
- Bio-compatible, hence, used in surgical tools and implants.