Books

Crafting a list of books on material design and engineering tailored to both professionals in the field and general readers interested in the transformative power of materials in design, technology, and everyday life offers insights into the crucial role materials play in shaping our world.

For Professionals

1. “Materials for Design” by Chris Lefteri

   • Remark: Provides a comprehensive overview of materials available to designers and engineers, emphasizing innovative applications.
   • Applied: Essential for professionals looking to explore new materials and their potential in design projects.

2. “The Materials Sourcebook for Design Professionals” by Rob Thompson and Martin Thompson

   • Remark: A detailed guide to the properties, manufacturing processes, and applications of various materials in design and engineering.
   • Applied: Serves as a reference for selecting the most appropriate materials for specific design challenges.

3. “Engineering Materials 1: An Introduction to Properties, Applications, and Design” by Michael F. Ashby and D. R. H. Jones

   • Remark: Offers an introduction to the mechanical and physical properties of engineering materials.
   • Applied: Crucial for engineers and material scientists in understanding fundamental material properties and their implications for design and manufacturing.

4. “Material Selection in Mechanical Design” by Michael F. Ashby

   • Remark: Discusses the principles of material selection in mechanical design, supported by methodologies and tools for making informed decisions.
   • Applied: Guides professionals through the process of material selection to optimize design performance and efficiency.

5. “Smart Materials and Technologies: For the Architecture and Design Professions” by D. Michelle Addington and Daniel L. Schodek

   • Remark: Explores the potential of smart materials and technologies in architecture and design, emphasizing their transformative capabilities.
   • Applied: Ideal for professionals interested in incorporating smart materials into innovative design solutions.

6. “Composite Materials: Science and Engineering” by Krishan K. Chawla

   • Remark: Covers the fundamentals, processing, and applications of composite materials, offering insights into their advantages and challenges.
   • Applied: Essential for designers and engineers working with or developing composite materials for various applications.

7. “Biofabrication: Micro- and Nano-fabrication, Printing, Patterning, and Assemblies” by Gabor Forgacs and Wei Sun

   • Remark: Discusses cutting-edge techniques in biofabrication, an emerging field at the intersection of biology and engineering.
   • Applied: Provides a forward-looking perspective for professionals interested in the applications of biofabrication in medical devices, tissue engineering, and biotechnology.

8. “Materials and the Environment: Eco-Informed Material Choice” by Michael F. Ashby

   • Remark: Examines materials from an environmental perspective, offering guidance on choosing materials that minimize ecological impact.
   • Applied: Crucial for professionals dedicated to sustainable design and manufacturing practices.

9. “Digital Crafting in Architecture: From Mass Customization to Design Democratization” edited by Gabriela Celani, David Moreno Sperling, and Juarez Moara Santos Franco

   • Remark: Explores how digital fabrication technologies are transforming the use of materials in architecture, enabling new forms and efficiencies.
   • Applied: Inspires professionals to leverage digital fabrication in materializing innovative architectural concepts.

10. “Phase Change Materials: Science and Applications” by Simin Nasseri

    • Remark: Details the science, technology, and applications of phase change materials (PCMs) in energy storage, thermal regulation, and smart textiles.
    • Applied: Offers insights into the use of PCMs for professionals focused on energy efficiency and innovative material applications.

For General Readers

1. “Stuff Matters: Exploring the Marvelous Materials That Shape Our Man-Made World” by Mark Miodownik

   • Remark: An engaging exploration of the materials that make up the world around us, from concrete to chocolate.
   • Applied: Fascinates readers with stories and science behind everyday materials.

2. “The Substance of Civilization: Materials and Human History from the Stone Age to the Age of Silicon” by Stephen L. Sass

   • Remark: Chronicles how materials have shaped human culture and civilization throughout history.
   • Applied: Offers a historical perspective for readers interested in the impact of materials on human development.

3. “Liquid Rules: The Delightful and Dangerous Substances That Flow Through Our Lives” by Mark Miodownik

   • Remark: Delves into the fascinating world of liquids and their roles in our lives, from mundane to industrial applications.
   • Applied: Engages curious minds in understanding the science and significance of liquid materials.

4. “The New Science of Strong Materials: Or Why You Don’t Fall Through the Floor” by J. E. Gordon

   • Remark: Explains the principles behind the strength and fragility of various materials in an accessible manner, shedding light on why materials behave the way they do.
   • Applied: Ideal for readers curious about material science without a technical background.

5. “Making the Modern World: Materials and Dematerialization” by Vaclav Smil

   • Remark: Examines the materials economy and its impact on the environment, discussing how material consumption has evolved and its implications for sustainability.
   • Applied: Provides a thought-provoking look at consumption patterns and their environmental consequences, appealing to readers interested in sustainability.

6. “Plastic: A Toxic Love Story” by Susan Freinkel

   • Remark: Explores the ubiquitous presence of plastic in modern life, its environmental impact, and the complexities of our reliance on it.
   • Applied: Raises awareness about plastic pollution and encourages readers to consider the material’s role in society and the environment.

7. “Material Revolution: Sustainable and Multi-Purpose Materials for Design and Architecture” by Sascha Peters

   • Remark: Highlights innovative materials that offer sustainable alternatives in design and architecture.
   • Applied: Inspires environmentally conscious readers with examples of cutting-edge, eco-friendly materials.

8. “Rethinking Sitting” by Peter Opsvik

   • Remark: Challenges conventional ideas about sitting and chair design, advocating for furniture that supports natural body movement.
   • Applied: Appeals to readers interested in ergonomic design and the impact of materials and form on human health.

9. “The Toaster Project: Or A Heroic Attempt to Build a Simple Electric Appliance from Scratch” by Thomas Thwaites

   • Remark: Chronicles the author’s journey to build a toaster from scratch, delving into the complexity and diversity of materials required for everyday objects.
   • Applied: Entertains and educates readers about the unseen material complexity behind simple products.

10. “Zero Waste Home: The Ultimate Guide to Simplifying Your Life by Reducing Your Waste” by Bea Johnson

    • Remark: Offers practical advice on reducing waste at home, touching on the choice of materials and products that lead to a more sustainable lifestyle.
    • Applied: Encourages readers to make conscious decisions about the materials they use daily, aiming for a zero-waste lifestyle.

This selection spans a range of topics within material design and engineering, from in-depth technical manuals and sustainable design practices to accessible introductions and thought-provoking discussions on the role of materials in shaping our world. Whether you’re a professional looking to push the boundaries of material application in design projects or a general reader seeking to understand the importance of materials in technology, environment, and daily life, these books offer valuable insights, inspiration, and practical advice.