The Metallurgist’s Playground
This strengthening mechanism occurs when solute atoms distort the lattice and hinder dislocation motion.
Solid solution strengthening
This electrolyte metal, abundant in bananas, helps regulate muscle function and nerve signals.
Potassium
The legendary Damascus Steel, used in Middle Eastern swords, was made from this high-carbon steel originating from India.
Wootz steel
This type of non-destructive testing (NDT) uses high-frequency sound waves to detect internal defects.
Ultrasonic testing (UT)
This strong natural material, found in some seafood and insects, could lead to biodegradable food packaging.
Chitin
The Aluminum Age began in the late 19th century, thanks to the invention of this cost-effective process for aluminum extraction.
Hall-Héroult process
The Kroll process is the main industrial method for extracting this strong and lightweight metal.
Titanium
This naturally occurring biopolymer gives bread its structure and elasticity, but some people are intolerant to it.
Gluten(2X)
This metal, known as quicksilver, was used in alchemical experiments to create gold.
Mercury
This low-carbon, ultra-high strength steel, named after a Greek Titan, is used in aerospace and military applications.
Maraging steel(2X)
Shellfish, nuts, and whole grains contain this metal, vital for immune function and often found in lozenges.
Zinc
The invention of stainless steel, in 1913, was credited to this English metallurgist.
Harry Brearley
The stress intensity factor (K_IC) is a key parameter in this field, which studies material resistance to crack growth.
Fracture mechanics
This transition metal, essential for human health, is also the reason why lobsters turn red when cooked.
Copper
The Corinthian Helmet, worn by the soldiers of Sparta and Corinth, was often made of what material
Bronze