"You might be surprised at the huge variety of materials we use every day, in the places we live, the vehicles we use, the clothes we wear, and in preparing the food we eat. This book explores how materials engineers research, design, and develop the materials needed to make these products a reality. Readers will also learn how to combine their understanding of materials science and the engineering design process to tackle a design challenge of their own."-- Provided by publisher.

A world of materials -- Matter and materials -- The ancient art of materials engineering -- Making the right choice -- Inspired by nature -- Do you want to be a materials engineer? -- The problem-solving process -- A question of balance -- Prototypes -- Testing times -- Ideas into practice -- Project -- Material strength -- The future of materials engineering.