Materijal

Materijal is a substance or mixture used to make an object or to achieve a particular function. In science and engineering, it is defined by its properties, internal structure, and the way it has been processed. Materials are selected and designed to meet specific performance criteria under expected service conditions, balancing factors such as strength, weight, durability, cost, and environmental impact.

Common classes of materials include metals (for example steel and aluminum), polymers (plastics and resins), ceramics (glasses, bricks, ceramics), and composites (such as fiberglass or carbon-fiber-reinforced polymers). Advanced and specialized materials expand this list to include biomaterials, nanomaterials, ceramics with engineered microstructures, and functional materials used in electronics, energy, and sensors. The choice of material often depends on the required combination of properties and the intended manufacturing method.

Material properties encompass mechanical, thermal, electrical, chemical, optical, and magnetic characteristics. These properties arise from the material’s composition, microstructure, and processing history. Processing methods—such as casting, forging, extrusion, and additive manufacturing—shape the final properties by influencing grain structure, phase distribution, and defects.

Standards and testing programs (for example, ASTM and ISO) provide methods to evaluate material performance and ensure quality. Materials science and engineering focus on understanding, selecting, and optimizing materials for applications across industries, while sustainability considerations emphasize lifecycle impact, recyclability, and responsible sourcing.