Materials

History, Science and Perspectives

By: Louisette Priester

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eText | 19 April 2026

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This richly illustrated and engaging book answers fundamental questions about materials and their impact on modern innovation, offering readers an accessible exploration of the fascinating history, science, and future of materials. From prehistoric stone tools to the advanced robotics of tomorrow, materials have shaped human history and innovation. They are integral to every aspect of human activity: from the flint used for survival a million years ago, to the sophisticated alloys and composites that power aircraft engines, create medical prosthetics, or enable the miniaturization of computer components. Across the ages, the fundamental challenge remains the same: harnessing the unique properties of materials to meet specific needs.

But what exactly are materials? What defines their properties and potential? How did materials evolve from natural resources to engineered marvels? What is "materials science," and why is it so vital today? Can materials "live" or change over time? And how do we select, manipulate, and apply them to shape the world around us?

Whether readers are curious about their origins, their role in shaping human progress, or the cutting-edge innovations transforming industries today, this book reveals the secrets of materials—and the incredible stories they tell.