Materials Science and Engineering: An Introduction

An outstanding text reflecting the latest developments in the field. This edition contains a new chapter titled Case Studies in Materials Selection which includes five different examples—a cantilever beam, an automobile valve spring, the artificial hip, the space shuttle's thermal protection system and packaging for integrated circuits—relative to materials employed and the rationale behind their use. These case studies are comprehensive in coverage and feature numerous engineering disciplines. New material on novel diamond thin films and the recently discovered carbon fullerenes plus a discussion of the Hall effect have been added.

The latest edition of this bestselling textbook treats the important properties of three primary types of material--metals, ceramics, polymers--as well as composites. Describes the relationships that exist between the structural elements of these materials and their characteristics. Emphasizes mechanical behavior and failure along with techniques used to improve the mechanical and failure properties in terms of alteration of structural elements. Individual chapters discuss each of the corrosion, electrical, thermal, magnetic, and optical properties plus economic, environmental, and societal issues. Features a design component which includes design examples, case studies, and design type problems and questions.