GCSEDesign & TechnologyAQARevision Notes1. Core Technical PrinciplesMaterial PropertiesMaterial Properties — Formability

Material Properties — Formability (AQA GCSE Design & Technology): Revision Note

Exam code: 8552

Philip Holton

Written by: Philip Holton

Reviewed by: James Woodhouse

Updated on

Malleability

What is malleability?

  • Malleability describes how well a material can be shaped or formed by hammering, rolling or pressing

  • Malleable materials can be formed into thin sheets

  • Examples of malleable materials: gold, aluminium, copper, lead

  • Examples of non-malleable materials: cast iron, glass, ceramics (brittle)

  • Malleable applications: aluminium drink cans, gold jewellery

Ductility

What is ductility?

  • Ductility describes how well a material can be drawn into long wires without breaking

  • Ductile materials deform under tension rather than snapping

  • Examples of ductile materials: copper, aluminium, gold, lower carbon steels

  • Examples of non-ductile materials: cast iron, glass, ceramics

  • Ductile applications: copper wires

Elasticity

What is elasticity?

  • Elasticity describes how well a material can stretch and return to its original shape when the force is removed

  • Elastic materials do not permanently change shape when deformed

  • Examples of elastic materials: rubbers, silicone

  • Examples of non-elastic materials: ceramics, glass, timbers

  • Elastic applications: elastic bands, bungee cords, rubber pipe seals, sports equipment

Worked Example

A designer is choosing a material for the body of a kettle. Explain why a thermoset polymer would be a suitable choice.

[3 marks]

Answer:

A thermoset polymer has low thermal conductivity, so it would insulate the user from the heat of the boiling water inside [1 mark]. It has low fusibility, meaning it will not melt or deform at the temperatures reached by a kettle [1 mark]. It is also an electrical insulator, which would protect the user from the electrical components inside the kettle [1 mark].

Examiner Tips and Tricks

  • Material property questions often ask you to justify a material choice. Always name the specific property and explain why it matters for the product.

  • A common mistake is writing that a material is ‘strong’ without specifying the type of strength (tensile, compressive or impact). Be precise with your terminology.

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Author
Reviewer
Philip Holton

Author: Philip Holton

Expertise: Design and Technology Content Creator

Phil is a Design and Technology specialist with over 22 years of experience across education, curriculum development, and assessment, working with major exam boards and organisations across the UK. He focuses on making GCSE D&T clear and accessible, helping students build the knowledge and confidence needed to succeed in their exams.

James Woodhouse

Reviewer: James Woodhouse

Expertise: Computer Science & English Subject Lead

James graduated from the University of Sunderland with a degree in ICT and Computing education. He has over 14 years of experience both teaching and leading in Computer Science, specialising in teaching GCSE and A-level. James has held various leadership roles, including Head of Computer Science and coordinator positions for Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4. James has a keen interest in networking security and technologies aimed at preventing security breaches.