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History records that mankind began using copper to make tools and weapons around 4200 BC. Metal has been part of our society ever since. It is used in almost everything including automobiles, equipment, infrastructure, machines, and even weapons.

Metals are so strong due to the forces of attraction which hold metal ions together. Metallic bonds are the strongest type of atomic bonds. In this infographic, learn more about the five strongest metals and their properties.

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The 5 Strongest Metals and Their Properties

Via Carport Central

The 5 Strongest Metals and Their Properties

DID YOU KNOW?

Metals are so strong due to the force of attraction of the atomic bonds which hold metal atoms together.

Here’s a list of five of the strongest metals in the world:

IRON

Iron is one of the most abundant elements on Earth. It is known for its dense nature (responsible for its high melting and boiling points) and impressive conductive properties.

TITANIUM

Titanium has the highest tensile strength to density ratio (it’s really strong), but it scores lower on the hardness scale than steel. Titanium alloys are strong and lightweight, and are popular for use in the aerospace industry.

CHROMIUM

If you define metal strength simply by hardness, then chromium tops the list. By itself, chromium doesn’t have great tensile strength or yield strength though. Chromium is often added to alloys (like stainless steel) to make them harder.

REALLY STRONG METALS

CARBON STEEL

Carbon steel is made by combining iron with carbon, making it stronger than either of those on their own. This alloy has been in use for centuries, is highly impact resistant, and is commonly used as a building material.

TUNGSTEN

Tungsten is unmatched in terms of tensile strength. It is very brittle and shatters under stress. It is often combined with other metals to make even stronger alloys.

WHAT PURPOSES DO STRONG METALS SERVE?

Metal Applications

IRON

  • Automobile
  • Furniture
  • Utensils
  • Architecture
  • Construction
  • Weapons
  • Armored vehicles

TITANIUM

  • Used in pigments
  • Coatings
  • Aircraft manufacturing
  • Military equipment

CHROMIUM

  • Used in chrome plating
  • Dye production
  • Tanning
  • Production of pigments
  • Added to stainless steel alloy

CARBON STEEL

  • Infrastructure and building construction
  • Automobile industry
  • Weapons manufacturing

TUNGSTEN

  • Added to stainless steel alloy
  • Filament in light bulbs and x-ray tubes
  • Heating elements
  • Electrodes for welding