Microstructure and Properties of Engineering Materials

Abstract

The microstructure of engineering materials is explained with focus on structural metallic materials, showing a polycrystalline multiphase assembly. The most important microstructure parameters are presented and their influence on mechanical properties is discussed. In addition, the most important methods for microstructural characterization on a nanometer and micrometer scale will be outlined in this introductory article with emphasis on analytical electron microscopy. Finally, a selection of textbooks and journal articles is listed which might be helpful for the reader to deepen his understanding of the microstructure and properties of engineering materials as well as of methods used for microstructural characterization.