Sonia A. Leao Block 4 BSA C34 General Classification of Materials Materials can be classified to many set of groups.

Just like the classifications of matter (solid, liquid, gas and plasma), materials are also classified according to their distinct properties. Metals - 24% of the earths mass is composed of metals. It has the most powerful and useful properties like strength, ductility, high melting points, thermal and electrical conductivity, and toughness. - Some examples are Nickel, Copper, Aluminum, Titanium and Iron/Steel. Ceramics - Ceramics are known as an inorganic, non-metallic solid that is prepared from powdered materials, is fabricated into products through the application of heat, and displays such characteristic properties as hardness, strength, low electrical conductivity, and brittleness." Or also known as the clay used in pottery. - Some examples are wall tile, dinnerware, container glass, abrasives and cements. Polymers - Literally, polymer means many parts. It is made up of chemically bonded units that when bonded together forms a solid. - Plastics, synthetic fibers and elastomers are perfect examples for this. Polyethylenes, Fluoroethylene are plastics while Nylon is a synthetic fiber while rubbers are elastomers. Composites - Composites are the combination of two or more unique materials. - Some examples are fibreglass, concrete, matrix composites like metal and ceramic, and reinforced plastics.

Sources:
http://www.ndted.org/EducationResources/CommunityCollege/Materials/Introduction/classifications.htm http://www.metallurgist.in/blog/material-science/34-intro-material-science/49-classification-ofmaterials