ABSTRACT
This chapter summarizes the porosity dependence of mechanical and other properties, addressing both data and models, and noting the status and needs of these. It also summarizes the more limited observations on the effects of microcracking on properties and its interaction with other microstructural variables, especially porosity. The chapter describes the applications of porous materials, especially ceramics, with particular attention to newer and emerging applications. It also describes fabrication/processing techniques to obtain the generally higher level and character of porosity needed for many applications. These include both derivatives of normal processing and novel techniques, both of which are large, specialized, subjects in themselves. The chapter explores some of the engineering for porous materials, especially property tradeoffs, and the implications of porosity effects on failure for nondestructive evaluation. There are a variety of existing, developing, and potential applications for porous materials, very often ceramics, that individually or as groups represent substantial technological and economic opportunity.
