Aluminium
Aluminium is a chemical element with the symbol Al and its atomic number is 13. It is present on the surface of the earth’s crust in most of the rocks and clay. But to produce the metal bauxite (Al2O3. 2H2O) is ideally suited ore.
Properties of Aluminium
- It is silver in colour and has bright lustre.
- It is very light in weight
- It is a good conductor of electricity.
- It has very good resistance to corrosion.
- It melts at 66°C.
- It is highly ductile and malleable.
- It has a high strength-to-weight ratio.
Uses of Aluminium
- It is used to make door and window frames.
- Aluminium structural members are becoming popular.
- Aluminium wires are used as conductors of electricity
- It is used as a foil.
- Aluminium powder serves as pigments in paints.
Copper
It is a naturally available metal in the form of ores which contain a small amount of iron and sulphur.
After removing impurities, it is processed electrolytically to get the purest metal. This metal is almost indestructible. Copper scrap can be processed to get the original copper.
Properties of Copper
- It has reddish-brown in colour.
- Its structure is crystalline.
- It is highly ductile and malleable.
- It resists corrosion.
- It can be welded easily in red heat conditions.
- Dents on the copper can be hammered out.
- It has high electric and thermal conductivity.
- Its melting point is at 1083°C
Uses of Copper
- It is used as an electric wire and cable.
- It is used as a lightning conductor.
- For waterproofing, the construction joints copper plates are used.
- Copper tubes are used for hot and cold water supply, and gas and sanitation connections.
- It forms a major constituent of brass and bronze.
We hope this article helped you learn about Aluminium and Copper as Building Materials. You may also want to learn about Cladding: Types and Considerations, Construction Terminologies You Should Know, Home Furniture | Meaning and Type, and What is an Architect?
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