Quick questions on Properties of common materials: O-Level Design Studies

Plastics are versatile: they can be moulded into almost any shape, come in any colour, and range from soft and flexible to hard and rigid. They are generally lightweight, water-resistant, durable and cheap to mass-produce. Their main drawbacks are environmental: most are made from finite resources and many are slow to break down, so sustainability is a serious consideration. They suit products, packaging and components where versatility and low cost matter.

Wood is a natural material that is relatively strong, can be cut, shaped and joined, and has a warm colour and attractive grain. It feels natural and traditional, making it popular for furniture, interiors and quality products. It can warp or rot if not treated and quality varies, but it is renewable when sourced responsibly. Wood is chosen as much for its natural aesthetic as for its strength.

Metals are strong, durable and rigid, and many resist wear well; some, like stainless steel and aluminium, resist corrosion. They can feel precise, premium and modern, and conduct heat and electricity. They are heavier and often more expensive than plastics, and harder to shape, but excellent where strength, durability and a quality feel are needed, such as structures, tools and premium products.

Glass is transparent, hard, smooth and chemically inert, giving a clean, premium, hygienic impression. It is ideal where you need to see the contents or want an upmarket feel, as in quality packaging and tableware. Its weakness is that it is brittle and shatters, and it is heavy, so it is chosen when its clarity and quality outweigh its fragility.

Textiles are flexible, soft and available in countless colours, patterns and textures. They drape, fold and provide comfort and warmth, and suit clothing, soft furnishings and flexible products. Properties vary widely between fibres, and many require care, but their softness, flexibility and rich aesthetic range make them unique among materials.