Malleability vs. Brittleness vs. Ductility
Educational tool comparing three material properties: malleability (plastic deformation when cold), brittleness (fracture without plastic deformation), and ductility (plastic elongation without fracture). Includes calculators for percent elongation and percent reduction of area.
Material Properties Overview
Malleability
A material can be plastic deformed and shaped when cold. Malleable materials can be shaped with hammering or rolling without fracture.
Typical materials: mild steel, gold, lead
Brittleness
A material will fracture without appreciable prior plastic deformation. The elastic stage is followed by immediate fracture.
Typical materials: glass, concrete, ceramics, stone, gray cast iron
Ductility
A material can be plastic deformed by elongation without fracture. Ductile materials typically can be elongated more than 15% before fracture.
Typical materials: copper, mild steel, thermoplastics