Seoksiset

Seoksiset is a Finnish term used in materials science to describe substances formed by combining two or more constituents to produce a new material with properties that differ from the components. The components may be metals, polymers, ceramics, or a combination of these. Seoksiset can be homogeneous, where the mixture forms a single phase, or heterogeneous, where distinct phases remain identifiable. The term covers traditional metallic alloys as well as modern composites and polymer blends.

Classification and structure: In homogeneous seoksiset, such as many alloys, the components are distributed uniformly at the microscopic level and the material behaves as a single phase. In heterogeneous seoksiset, such as reinforced composites or concrete, the distinct phases (for example a matrix and a reinforcement) give tailored mechanical or thermal properties. The classification often follows the primary matrix (metallic, polymeric, ceramic) and the presence of reinforcing phases.

Manufacture and property design: Seoksiset are produced by methods including melting and alloying, powder metallurgy, solution blending, melt blending, phase-inversion polymerization, and composite manufacturing. Designers adjust composition, microstructure, and processing to optimize strength, density, toughness, thermal conductivity, and corrosion resistance.

Applications: They are used across industries such as construction, automotive, electronics, aerospace, and consumer goods. Common examples include steel alloys, aluminum alloys, brass and bronze, concrete with admixtures, fiber-reinforced polymers, and ceramic-matrix composites.