Characterization of Materials — I

Abstract

The characterization of materials is an important step to be taken before utilizing the materials for any purpose. Depending on the purpose one can subject the material to mechanical, thermal, chemical, optical, electrical, and other characterizations to make sure that the material under consideration can function without failure for the life of the final product. We will consider only mechanical, thermal, and surface properties in this chapter, while in the next chapter we will study electrical, optical, and diffusive properties.