tvárnosti

Tvárnost is a Czech term that describes the property of a material or object to take and maintain a new shape through plastic deformation. It denotes formability and ductility—the ability to be shaped without cracking or fracturing under applied stress. The word derives from the root for form (tvar) with the suffix -nost and is related to tvárný (shapable) or plasticita (plasticity).

In materials science, tvárnost is closely linked to plasticity and malleability. Materials with high tvárnost can be shaped by forming processes such as forging, rolling, extrusion, or stamping and may be able to deform plastically at moderate stresses. The degree of tvárnost depends on temperature, strain rate, microstructure, and impurities. Brittle materials have low tvárnost, whereas ductile metals or certain polymers show high tvárnost.

Use in practice: Engineers assess tvárnost to determine manufacturability; it influences selection of materials and forming processes. Measuring tvárnost involves tests for ductility or forming limit diagrams; common indicators include elongation at break and reduction of area.

In broader usage, tvárnost can be used metaphorically to describe adaptability of plans, organizations, or individuals, i.e., their ability to take new shapes in response to changing conditions.