Density of Common Materials
Reference table for density (ρ) across metals, plastics, and composites
Density Comparison Table
| Material | Density ρ (g/cm³) |
|---|---|
| Aluminum | 2.70 |
| Steel (Carbon) | 7.85 |
| Stainless Steel | 8.00 |
| Copper | 8.96 |
| Brass | 8.50 |
| Bronze | 8.80 |
| Nickel | 8.90 |
| Titanium | 4.50 |
| Cast Iron | 7.20 |
| Polyethylene (PE) | 0.94 |
| Polypropylene (PP) | 0.91 |
| Polystyrene (PS) | 1.05 |
| Polycarbonate (PC) | 1.20 |
| Epoxy Resin | 1.20 |
| Concrete | 2.40 |
| Wood (Oak) | 0.75 |
| Wood (Pine) | 0.50 |
| Bricks | 1.80 |
Density Comparison Chart
About Density
Density (ρ) is a fundamental material property defined as the mass per unit volume of a substance. It is typically expressed in grams per cubic centimeter (g/cm³) or kilograms per cubic meter (kg/m³). Density quantifies how much matter is packed within a given space, making it essential in engineering, materials science, and mechanical design.
Importance of Density in Engineering
Material density is used in a wide range of applications, including:
- Weight and Mass Calculations: Determining the mass of components for structural and mechanical designs.
- Structural Analysis: Evaluating load-bearing capacity, strength-to-weight ratios, and material suitability for construction or machinery.
- Component Design: Optimizing parts for durability, performance, and efficiency.
- Materials Selection: Choosing the right metals, plastics, or composites based on density for aerospace, automotive, and industrial applications.
- Energy and Cost Efficiency: Reducing material consumption and weight while maintaining structural integrity.
Understanding material density ensures that components meet design specifications, safety standards, and performance requirements, making it one of the most essential properties in modern engineering and materials science.