Materials can be broadly classified into two categories: metallic and non-metallic.
- Metallic materials: These are materials that are composed mostly of metal elements, such as iron, aluminum, copper, gold, and silver. They are typically characterized by high strength, ductility, and conductivity. They are widely used in construction, transportation, electrical and electronic industries, and many others.
- Non-metallic materials: These are materials that are not composed mostly of metal elements, such as ceramics, polymers, composites, and biomaterials. They have a wide range of properties and are used in a wide variety of applications.
a. Ceramic materials: These are inorganic, non-metallic materials that are characterized by their high hardness, high melting point, and excellent resistance to wear and corrosion. They are widely used in applications such as cutting tools, abrasives, and insulators.
b. Polymer materials: These are materials made from long chains of repeating molecular units. They are characterized by their low density, high flexibility, and good electrical insulation properties. They are widely used in applications such as packaging, textiles, and medical devices.
c. Composite materials: These are materials made by combining two or more different materials to achieve specific properties. They are characterized by their high strength-to-weight ratio and are widely used in aerospace, automotive, and construction industries.
d. Biomaterials: These are materials used in medical applications that interact with biological systems. They are used in devices such as artificial organs, implants, and prostheses.
This classification is not exhaustive, as there are many other types of materials, such as glasses, semiconductors, and smart materials, that are not included in these categories.