Metals and Alloys - Bulk Modulus Elasticity

The Bulk Modulus - resistance to uniform compression - for common metals and alloys. This tool provides reference values and allows calculation of bulk modulus using the relationship with modulus of elasticity and Poisson's ratio.

Bulk Modulus Elasticity

The Bulk Modulus Elasticity - or Volume Modulus - is a measure of the substance's resistance to uniform compression. It is the ratio of stress to the change in volume in a material subjected to axial loading.

Relationship Formula

Bulk Modulus is related to Modulus of Elasticity and Poisson's Ratio as:

K = E / 3 (1 - 2r)

Where:

  • K = Bulk Modulus (Pa or psi)
  • E = Modulus of Elasticity (Pa or psi)
  • r = Poisson's Ratio
Calculator

Inputs

Results

Bulk Modulus (K)-- GPa
MaterialBulk Modulus (10⁶ psi)Bulk Modulus (GPa)
Aluminum, various alloys9.9 - 10.268 - 70
Boron Carbide (B4)29 - 34.8200 - 240
Brass, 70-3015.7108
Brass, cast16.8116
Concrete0.87 - 4.16 - 28
Copper17.9123
Diamond (carbon)80 - 93550 - 640
Iron, cast8.4 - 15.558 - 107
Iron, malleable17.2119
Magnesium alloy4.833.1
Monel metal22.5155
Phosphor bronze16.3112
Silver13.9 - 15.496 - 106
Stainless Steels (18-8)23.6163
Steel, cast20.2139
Steel, cold rolled23.1159
Steel, various22.6 - 24.0156 - 165
Tin6.1 - 8.442 - 60
Tungsten44.5 - 15.5307 - 314