The “physical properties” of a material include density, and electrical and thermal properties. These primarily reflect behaviour at the atomic or sub-atomic scale - unlike “mechanical properties”, which usually depend on many microstructural features.

Density is of great importance for aluminium - very many applications exploit its combination of good mechanical, thermal or electrical performance at low weight (e.g. in transport).

Aluminium is a good thermal and electrical conductor, and is cheaper and/or lighter than competing metals (such as copper, gold and silver).

This module introduces the important physical properties of aluminium alloys, and compares aluminium with other materials.

Choose one of the subtopics outlined below to learn more about the physical properties of aluminium alloys.

	Property Definitions and Measurement Learn how the key physical properties used in engineering design are defined and measured.
	Introduction to Property Charts Learn how property charts are used to compare different materials for a given application.
	Property Comparisons Use property charts to contrast aluminium with other materials, and to compare aluminium alloys.
	Case Studies Select alloys for the best balance of physical (and mechanical) properties for a range of different applications.