Clearly written and with a practical, problem-solving approach, this introduction to the characteristics and testing of materials effectively combines the background students need in principles and theory with plenty of applications, to provide a solid understanding of the materials used in today's machines, devices, structures, and consumer products. Straightforward, non-mathematical coverage is aimed at answering the "why" and "how" questions of materials science and materials testing as they relate to all types of materials—concrete, wood, metals, and polymers—and is geared to helping students build a foundation from which they can learn to design and develop additional materials and conduct materials testing procedures on their own.