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

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

Exam code: 8552

Philip Holton

Written by: Philip Holton

Reviewed by: James Woodhouse

Updated on

Strength

What is strength?

  • Strength describes how well a material can withstand force without breaking or deforming

  • High-strength materials are safer, more durable and longer lasting

  • Tensile strength: resistance to pulling or stretching

  • Compressive strength: resistance to squashing

  • Impact strength: resistance to sudden force

  • Strong materials: metals (steel, aluminium), hardwoods (oak), composites (GRP, CRP), polymers (ABS)

  • Applications: steel bridges, bicycle frames, tools

Hardness

What is hardness?

  • Hardness describes how well a material resists surface scratching

  • Hard materials: high-carbon steels, ceramics, glass, hardwoods (oak)

  • Soft materials: polystyrene, polyethylene, softwoods (pine)

  • Hard applications: cutting tools, drill bits, work surfaces

  • Soft applications: protective grips, handles, outer packaging

Toughness

What is toughness?

  • Toughness describes how well a material can absorb impact or sudden force without breaking

  • Tough materials bend and deform rather than crack

  • Examples of tough materials: polycarbonate, mild steel, rubber

  • Examples of brittle materials: glass, ceramics, many thermoset polymers

  • Tough applications: polycarbonate car bumpers, body parts

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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.