Why do engineers need to know about materials? Metals, polymers, ceramics, composites — what are the key characteristics of each class of material and which is best suited for a given industrial application? How can service conditions change the performance of materials? This compact undergraduate textbook gives you, the engineer, insight into these questions and the information you need to effectively interact with materials experts from all walks of life and gain a foothold in your budding career as a materials-literate engineer. Featuring familiar examples from the aviation and the automotive industries, this applications-led approach focuses on illustrating key concepts, giving real-world context to the material presented. In addition, the book acquaints you with important operational aspects of materials selection, such as costs, environmental impact, and sustainability. Optimised for mechanical and aerospace engineers, this book is also suitable for students in the adjacent fields of civil, industrial, and manufacturing engineering. Concise, practical, and easy to understand — this textbook is the ideal accompaniment to any introductory engineering course.