ABSTRACT

Materials generally form one of the most important variables in the

process of technical design. There are many parameters involved in

the choice of materials, but they fall into three main categories, initially

availability and suitability are the primary variables, but the familiarity of

the designers with these two issues is also paramount. This defines the

‘comfort zone’ for most designers and also represents the primary

obstacle to innovation and a subsequent move to more sustainable

design practices.