mediumdensity

Mediumdensity is a term used to classify materials whose density falls between low-density and high-density categories within a particular field. It is not a fixed scientific term with a universal numerical boundary; instead, the exact range depends on context, such as the industry, the materials involved, and the performance requirements.

Density is mass per unit volume. In practice, medium-density materials are typically in the approximate range of 0.5 to 2.5 g/cm3 (500 to 2500 kg/m3). Some fields may use slightly narrower or broader thresholds. Porous materials may have lower apparent density, while compressed or solid materials in engineering applications may reach higher mid-range values.

Common examples of medium-density materials include medium-density fibreboard (MDF) used in furniture and cabinetry, certain plastics such as polycarbonate and some engineering plastics, and many wood composites and lightweight ceramics. These materials offer a balance of weight, stiffness, and cost, and are selected when neither very light nor very heavy materials suffice.

Applications span construction, packaging, automotive components, interior fittings, and acoustic or thermal insulation where weight savings are important but structural integrity is required. Properties associated with medium-density materials typically include moderate strength-to-weight ratios, good machinability, and cost-effectiveness.

Measurement of density is usually done by dividing mass by volume, with methods adapted for porosity. For porous or foam-like materials, apparent density or bulk density is used. Standards such as ASTM D792 (plastics) or ISO 1183 (foams) provide testing guidelines.

Notable product example: medium-density fibreboard (MDF) is a widely used medium-density material derived from wood fibers bonded with resin, with densities around 0.6–0.8 g/cm3.

See also: density; low-density materials; high-density materials; MDF.