Stiffness: Part 9 Stiffness in Different Materials
Elastic Modulus increases as Bond stiffness increases. Eg, when equilibrium bond length decreases = strong bonding. And small atoms and closer packed structures.
Ceramics = very strong bonding and high stiffness
Metals = strong bonding and close packed structures, intermediate stiffness
Polymers = weak bonding and open structures, lowest stiffness.
Can we make materials stiffer?
Yes, but only through producing composite materials
We can't change the bond strength or spacing by alloying
Can mix together materials of a different stiffness to give varying results
Eg, fibre glass in a polymer matrix, or ceramic fibres in a metal matrix
Application of the Elastic Modulus
Allows the behaviour of a material under load to be predicted - only applicable when the load produces reversible elastic deformation.
Can predict elastic extension of a cable in tension, and the deflection of a beam in bending
Materials with a higher stiffness will extend or deflect less - steel < aluminium < wood
Determine the energy stored in a structure that has been elastically deformed - such as a spring
In the case of loading to a given stress, a low stiffness is more desirable.