NCEES Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Mechanical Practice Exam 2025 - Free FE Mechanical Practice Questions and Study Guide

The primary types of materials used in engineering include metals, polymers, and composites, which are widely recognized for their diverse properties and applications.

Metals are known for their strength, ductility, and electrical conductivity, making them ideal for structural applications and machinery. Polymers, characterized by their lightweight and corrosion resistance, are commonly used in a variety of consumer products and engineering applications where flexibility is desired. Composites, which combine two or more different materials to achieve enhanced performance characteristics, are utilized in high-performance applications such as aerospace and automotive industries.

Glass, while a significant material with unique properties, such as transparency and brittleness, does not fall into one of the primary categories typically emphasized in engineering materials discussions. It is often grouped with ceramics and primarily has applications in areas like construction and electronics rather than serving as a fundamental engineering material like metals, polymers, and composites. This classification is why glass is considered less central in the context of main engineering materials.