This is the first English-language edition of a textbook that was originally only available in Dutch. The authors, of whom Stephen Picken is a new co-author, have taken the opportunity to rewrite and update the text, thereby introducing new topics and new applications. The book is an introduction to a broad range of materials: metals, plastics, ceramics and biomaterials. Basic knowledge and relevant information is presented for designers and engineers concerning the design and manufacture of new products or the improvement of existing ones. Also, modern developments and future trends are treated, in particular in the field of functional polymers and materials of biological origin. Throughout the book the importance of the interaction between structure, properties, processing and manufacture is emphasized. This gives the designer the tools for an integrated product development.In all chapters illustrative examples and problems are included, providing exercises for the subjects discussed in the text. In addition at het end of the book the reader is presented more than 30 exercises to catalyze thinking and improve his skills.The authors are associated with Delft University of Technology. Pieter van Mourik and Jaap van Dam lectured on materials science for students of industrial design, materials science, mechanical and maritime engineering and aerospace engineering. Stephen Picken is full professor in polymer science.ContentsPreface | 1. Introduction | 2 Properties and testing | 3 Structure of materials | 4 Alloys, solutions, mixtures, blends and composites | 5 Iron and steel | 6 Non-ferrous metals | 7 Synthetic polymers | 8 Materials of biological origin | 9 Ceramics | 10 Processing | 11 Material selection, design and manufacturingAppendix 1. Standardization and nomenclature | Appendix 2. Properties of selected engineering materials | Appendix 3. Answers to Problems | Appendix 4. Exercises | References | Index | About the authorsURL: http://www.vssd.nl/hlf/m017.htm