AnhVu Gia PHAN (Ed.D.) is the lecturer and Dean of the Facultyof Applied Sciences, Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology andEducation (HCMUTE). He has been the author and coauthor, as well asexaminer, of several national and international research papers. He hasalso successfully advised many theses leading to master’s and doctoraldegrees in Physics and Physics Education. Having an exposure toEuropean education systems early in his career life, he has realized thatforeign languages, especially English, are the key to bridging the gaps ineducation and scholarship between Vietnam and the world. Therefore, inaddition to teaching and researching in the field of Physics Education, hehas always had the inspiration to learn and help his students learn foreignlanguages for professional purposes, hence his initiative for the presenttextbook English for Materials Technology.HuyBinh DO (Ph.D.) is a lecturer at the Faculty of Applied Sciencesat HCMUTE. He earned the doctoral degree in Materials Science andEngineering (2017) from National Chiao Tung University, Taiwan,and worked as a postdoctoral research fellow there for a year. Hehasbecomea Research Associate at Sheffield University (the UK) since2018. With over 30 publications, his interests pertain to exploringadvanced materials applicable to power and radiofrequency devices.He has also been an active reviewer of Applied Physics Letter and APLMaterials. As he has recently grown interests in English specificallyused in the field of materials technology, he would like to make Englishpart of a training program to prepare his students with a language toolfor their future careers.
MATERIALS TECHNOLOGY
By the end of this unit, students will be able to
• familiarize themselves with basic vocabulary related to materials technology;
• understand the grammatical nature of concrete and abstract nouns and make a distinction between them;
• know where the stressed syllable should be placed on a noun;
• comprehend a speech or writtentext of medium length about technology in general terms;
• talk and write about the choices of studying materials technology.
Read the following text and notice the words and phrases in bold typeface.
THE ADVENT OF MATERIALS TECHNOLOGY
Materials frequently encounter extreme conditions such as high temperatures, high pressures, low temperatures, and chemically reactive environments To ensure their performance under these varying conditions, it is essential to incorporate additional functionalities during the production process.
“smart” materials are produced thanks to the advent of materials technology.
Materials technology is a relatively comprehensive discipline that begins with the production of goods from raw materials to processing of materials into the shapes and forms needed for specific applications.
Materials such as metals, plastics, and ceramics possess distinct properties, necessitating unique production technologies As a dynamic field, materials technology continually advances, introducing innovative materials with remarkable characteristics that enable new applications Notably, the creation of composites by combining various materials results in entirely new material properties.
There are also many new materials available by the nanotechnology, ranging from carbon nanotubes to inorganic nanoparticles, conductive polymers, and so on.
(Synthesized from Science Direct and Seven Flanks)
Activity 1 The words/phrases in the text above are listed in column A Match each with its definition in column B.
1 raw materials A a quality or characteristic that something has
2 metals B a kind of technology that makes use of matter on an atomic, molecular, and supramolecular scale for industrial purposes
3 plastics C substances including elemental metals, metal oxides, and metal salts
4 ceramics D cylindrical molecules that consist of rolled-up sheets of single-layer carbon atoms
5 properties E a solid material that is typically hard, shiny, malleable, fusible, and ductile, with good electrical and thermal conductivity
6 composites F organic polymers that conduct electricity
7 nanotechnology G an inorganic non-metallic solid made up of compounds that have been shaped and then hardened by heating to high temperatures
8 carbon nanotubes H the basic material from which a product is made.
9 inorganic nanoparticles I a light strong material that is produced by chemical processes and can be formed into shapes when heated
10 conductive polymers K a mixture of different materials
Nouns are words that denote persons, objects, places, or concepts, and they can be categorized into concrete and abstract types Concrete nouns represent tangible items that can be seen or touched, such as a tree or a newspaper, while abstract nouns refer to intangible ideas that cannot be sensed, like love or happiness (Altenberg & Vago, 2010).
Activity 2 Put the nouns in an appropriate category. courage culture atom piano train honesty noise friendship
In light of the distinction between concrete and abstract nouns suggested by Altenberg and Vago (2010), nouns for materials are concrete because they refer to substances.
Activity 3 Look back at the preliminary text and pick out four abstract nouns.
In English, every multisyllabic noun contains a stressed syllable, although there are no strict rules governing word stress due to numerous exceptions However, there are general guidelines that can be followed for identifying stressed syllables in nouns.
• Most two-syllable nouns have the stress on the first syllable.
• Nouns ending in -IC/-ICS or -SION/-TION have the stress on penultimate syllable (the second syllable from end).
[1.2] plastic /ˈplổstɪk/ ceramic /səˈrổmɪk/ application /ˌổplɪˈkeɪʃn/ combination /ˌkɒmbɪˈneɪʃn/
• Nouns ending in -CY, -TY, -PHY, -GY and -AL have the stress on the ante-penultimate syllable (the third syllable from end).
[1.3] property /ˈprɒpəti/ technology /tekˈnɒlədʒi/
Activity 4 Underline the stressed syllables in the following nouns. jewelry acrylic toxin material rubber crystal production industry
In the recruitment campaign for 'Studying Materials Science' at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, students are encouraged to explore innovative paths that address the growing demands of sustainable development The program focuses on creating efficient solutions that reduce our environmental footprint while supporting renewable materials By specializing in this field, students can satisfy their curious minds and contribute to the future of responsible consumption and resource management.
Have you ever considered the impact of the materials around you? They protect us, support us, and elevate us to new heights, forming the foundation for our future Every day, individuals are innovating with the materials found in everyday objects, shaping the technology of tomorrow The demand for energy is rapidly increasing, making the use of sustainable energy crucial for our future Material science enables us to incorporate these advancements into our daily lives We must become more efficient in extracting these materials while minimizing our environmental footprint The materials we encounter daily not only build our future but also connect us, providing the confidence to pursue our dreams.
Many have made this choice before you, and now it's your turn to explore the world of materials, which unlocks new avenues for creativity We seek individuals who are eager and passionate about uncovering the hidden potential of materials Visionary thinkers are essential for shaping the future You will have the opportunity to collaborate in teams and focus on the areas that interest you the most This decision could not only transform your life but also impact the future significantly.
(Adapted from Fakultet for Naturvitenskap, 2019)
Everything happens for a reason You certainly have reasons to choose Materials Technology for your career Talk about why you have chosen this.
Activity 7 Read the passage about Nanotechnology and choose the best answer for each question.
Nanotechnology refers to the science and technology that manipulates matter at the atomic level, specifically at scales measured in nanometers This innovative field has applications across various domains, including biology, medicine, computing, materials science, manufacturing, and physics.
Scientists can now manipulate atoms and molecules to create innovative shapes, revealing that materials exhibit distinct properties at the 'nano' scale compared to larger scales For instance, the color and strength of materials can vary significantly A prime example is the carbon nanotube, which is formed by rolling a sheet of graphite molecules into a tube Remarkably, carbon nanotubes are hundreds of times stronger than steel while being only one-sixth the weight.
Nanotechnology is revolutionizing production methods and product quality, with scientists forecasting its extensive future applications In computing, nanoparticles could enable the creation of memory chips and circuitry, potentially shrinking computers to sizes smaller than a pinhead Additionally, nanotechnology could facilitate the development of small machines and medical robots, or 'nanobots,' capable of performing surgeries by navigating through blood vessels and targeting cancer cells Furthermore, nanoparticles hold promise for environmental remediation, such as cleaning up ocean pollution.
Nanotechnology presents significant concerns, particularly regarding the unknown risks associated with nanoparticles Many individuals worry about the potential threats to human health, fearing that these tiny particles could bypass the immune system and infiltrate cells, leading to harmful consequences Additionally, there are apprehensions about the environmental impact of releasing nanoparticles into nature.
(Adapted from Material Research Laboratory at UC, Santa Barbara)
1 What can be another title for the passage?
B Nanotechnology: its uses and risks
2 Where in the passage can you find the definition of ‘nanotechnology’?
3 Which of the following information is NOT mentioned in the passage?
A Nanoparticles will be used in the production of memory chips.
B Nanoparticles will be used as healing robots to cure cancer.
C Nanoparticles will be used in the production of food.
D Nanoparticles will be used for ocean cleaning.
4 The word ‘manipulates’ in paragraph 1 is closest in meaning to
5 What is the tone of the passage?
Based on what you listen to and read about materials and nanotechnology, write a short text to attract high school students to HCMUTE Faculty of Applied Sciences.
TYPES OF MATERIALS
By the end of this unit, students will be able to
• name different materials in English and describe their properties;
• realize the adjectives through word/phrase structures;
• comprehend a speech of medium length about types of materials in general terms;
• make notes and write a summary of a reading text.
Read the text and examine the words in bold typeface.
Matter exists in four fundamental states: solid, liquid, gas, and plasma Solids, in particular, have thousands of applications in engineering They can be categorized into three main subclasses based on their atomic structure: metals, ceramics, and polymers.
Metals are solid materials made up of one or more metallic elements, such as iron, aluminum, and gold, often combined with small amounts of nonmetallic elements like carbon and nitrogen A key characteristic of metals is the presence of charge carriers, particularly electrons, which is a result of the metallic bond Unlike other types of bonds, metallic bonds do not involve the sharing or exchanging of electrons among atoms.
In metals, electrons are largely free to move, with approximately one electron per atom, allowing them to interact with numerous fixed atoms This delocalization of outer electrons is the key factor behind the electrical and thermal conductivity of metals.
Ceramics are solid materials made up of inorganic compounds formed from metal, non-metal, or metalloid atoms, primarily bonded through ionic and covalent interactions Common types of ceramics include earthenware, porcelain, and brick In the nuclear industry, uranium dioxide serves as a ceramic refractory compound, often utilized as nuclear fuel.
Polymers are macromolecules made up of carbon, hydrogen, and other nonmetallic elements, encompassing both synthetic plastics like polystyrene and natural biopolymers such as DNA and proteins, which are essential for biological structure and function Common examples of polymers include polyethylene (PE), nylon, polycarbonate (PC), polystyrene (PS), and silicone rubber.
(Adapted from material-properties.org)
Activity 1 Match each of the following elements with its chemical symbol.
Activity 2 Name at least three elements you know.
A suffix is a letter or group of letters added to the end of a word to create a new word This article explores the meanings of the suffixes -AL and -IC, which form adjectives that provide additional information about the qualities or states of nouns.
• Adjective suffix -AL has the meaning of “relating to, having the quality of”
[2.1] educational historical regional social universal personal
• Adjectives suffix -IC has the meaning of “pertaining or connected with”
Note that these ending forms can be nouns, which can be found in nouns of materials, such as ceramic and metal.
In Activity 3, identify the words that can serve as either an adjective or a noun from the following list: crystal, non-metal, ironic, plastic, acrylic, metal, synthetic, and thermal.
The following words are names of chemical elements. aluminum /əˈluːmɪnəm/ chromium /ˈkrəʊmiəm/ uranium /juˈreɪniəm/ titanium /taɪˈteɪniəm/ sodium /ˈsəʊdiəm/ potassium /pəˈtổsiəm/
Activity 4 Practice the pronunciation of the words and provide the chemical symbols for them.
Activity 5 Look at the pronunciation and tell what rule of word stress for these words should be like.
In this activity, you will listen to news about the lightest materials Your task is to fill in the numbered gaps with appropriate words from the provided list These materials, often made from nickel, are thinner and have a significant impact on various industries They are fabricated to achieve specific heights and forms, and their invention has led to dozens of applications The use of these materials has been explained in detail, showcasing their versatility and importance in modern technology.
Scientists have developed the world’s lightest material, which is so lightweight that it can rest on a dandelion's seed This innovative material, known as "ultralight metallic microlattice" (UMM), was created by researchers from the University of California, the California Institute of Technology, and HRL Laboratories.
It is 100 times lighter than Styrofoam – the material commonly (4)
A new packaging material has been developed that is 10,000 times lighter than ultralight aerogels and carbon foams, which are also commonly used for packing Lead researcher Tobias Shandler from HRL explains the reasons behind the remarkable lightness of this innovative material.
“The trick is to (6) ……… a lattice of interconnected hollow tubes with a wall thickness 1,000 times (7) ……… than a human hair.” It is so hollow that it is 99 per cent (8) ……….
The new material has been made largely of the metal (9)
Bill Carter, a manager at HRL, stated that UMM can be constructed from various lightweight materials He noted that UMM is so light that it takes over 10 seconds for the lightest version to fall when dropped from shoulder height The developers envision numerous applications for UMM, predicting its presence in many everyday objects within the next decade Computer experts believe that UMM will contribute to the development of lighter and faster computers.
……… protection - researchers say that when it is squashed to half its (15) ………, the material almost rebounds back to its original (16)
……… Other uses include sound dampening and thermal insulation.
(Adapted from Breaking News English, November 21, 2011)
Talk about your reactions to the news, using the following suggested questions:
1 What do you think has been the world’s greatest ever invention?
2 What do you often expect when you hear the word ‘invention’?
3 What did you think when you read the headline?
4 What would be a good name for this new invention?
Activity 8 Read the passage and do the tasks that follow.
NEW MATERIALS WILL CHANGE THE WORLD
At the Euroscience Festival 2014 in Copenhagen, researchers explored the transformative potential of new materials, particularly in the context of the 'Materials and Virtual World' discussion Karin Margarita Frei, a senior researcher at the National Museum of Denmark, highlighted the innovative applications of ancient materials, emphasizing how textiles have historically revolutionized human lives Her research involves measuring strontium isotopes in woolen textiles, which provides precise information about the origin of the wool, revealing the geographical history of the animals This technique, originally applied to textiles, also has modern forensic applications, allowing for the mapping of an individual's life based on human hair analysis.
Dr Nick Goldman, a senior researcher at the European Molecular Biology Laboratory in Britain, discussed his groundbreaking research on a future material: DNA He and his team demonstrated the potential to store computer data within DNA molecules, asserting, “I certainly believe we can say that DNA is a new material.”
Elham Kashefi, an associate professor at the University of Edinburgh's School of Informatics, focuses on quantum computers, which utilize quantum mechanics for data processing This approach significantly enhances processing speed compared to traditional digital computers According to Kashefi, computers designed based on quantum physics principles will not only operate at much higher speeds but also offer greater security due to the inherent properties of quantum states.
I Match the invention applications with the inventor.
A discovering the origin of wool by measuring the isotopes
B making the processing speed faster
C storing computer data in DNA molecules
D securing information by means of quantum computers
E finding a person’s place of origin by examining their hair
II Choose the best answer.
1 What can be another title for this passage?
B Researchers presenting their new inventions
D New materials dominating the world
2 The word ‘revolutionized’ in paragraph 2 is closest in meaning to
C completely changed in a positive manner
D completely changed with negative effects
3 The following statements are true of the reading passage except
A Quantum computers will give secure communication.
B Textile will dominate the world of materials.
C DNA hard disks can survive for millennia.
D Textile research gives answers to forensic scientists.
A summary is a concise version of a longer text that provides a clear understanding of its main ideas To create an effective summary, one must identify and condense the key concepts into a brief overview.
A summary is important when you need to keep the information for future use, or when you recount something to someone else.
What are the tips for writing a summary?
• Write about the ideas: remember to keep it brief and use synonyms to avoid repetition
• Present only the information; do not include your own opinions, comments or judgments.
• Make sure your summary flow by shaping it in the form of a paragraph.
Activity 9 Listen to the news again and write a summary; begin your summary with the given sentence.
The report is about the lightest material …
COMPOSITES AND ADVANCED MATERIALS
By the end of this unit, students will be able to
• explain the properties of materials, using collocations;
• describe the materials’ features impersonally by means of passive voice;
• comprehend a speech about an application of nanotechnology;
• discuss the importance of advanced materials technology.
Read the text and examine the expressions in bold typeface.
Different materials can be combined and grouped by the types of materials combined or the way the materials are arranged together to create a more complex material
A composite material consists of two or more individual components, such as metals, ceramics, and polymers, aimed at achieving a unique combination of properties not found in any single material This design approach leverages the best characteristics of each component A well-known example is fiberglass, which merges small glass fibers with a polymeric matrix, typically epoxy or polyester, resulting in a material that combines the strength and stiffness of glass fibers with the flexibility of the polymer.
Advanced materials are innovative substances employed in high-tech applications, specifically engineered to deliver exceptional performance for targeted functions This category encompasses semiconductors, nanomaterials, biomaterials, and smart materials, often referred to as the "materials of the future."
Semiconductor materials possess electrical properties that lie between those of conductors and insulators, allowing them to transition from insulators to conductors when an external voltage is applied This unique capability makes semiconductors essential in the electronics industry, with widespread applications in devices such as computers, mobile phones, tablets, cameras, and smart TVs.
Nanomaterials, defined as materials with sizes ranging from 1 to 100 nanometers, exhibit unique properties that differ significantly from their bulk counterparts The size and geometry of these materials can greatly influence their characteristics, leading to intriguing and sometimes unusual behaviors For instance, gold nanoparticles demonstrate high chemical reactivity, a stark contrast to the inert nature of bulk gold.
Biomaterials are new materials that can be implanted into our bodies They are able to perform their designed functions and show the ability to survive in living bodies
Smart materials are engineered to replicate biological behaviors, allowing them to sense environmental changes and respond accordingly The term "smart" highlights their ability to react in predetermined ways to various stimuli.
Collocations are specific combinations of words that often appear together, particularly when describing the characteristics of materials In this unit, we will explore various collocations that convey different states, enhancing our understanding of how these word groups function in context.
Collocation Meaning be composed of … be made or formed from several parts, things or people be at the center of … be more involved in (something) have the property of …
The property of something can be displayed through its qualities or characteristics, demonstrating the ability to perform specific actions or possess certain skills These attributes can significantly impact various aspects, showcasing their powerful effects Additionally, the range of these qualities can vary between two particular amounts or sizes, indicating a switch from one state to another.
Activity 1 Complete the following sentences by filling in each numbered gap with an appropriate collocation in the list above.
1 A kind of material that ……… high strength and light weight ……… current research in material technology.
2 Plywood ……… thin veneers of wood plies that are sandwiched together with binders, pressed, and heated.
3 Advanced materials ……… all levels of economy and society.
4 Matter ……… solid, liquid, gas, and plasma.
Activity 2 Think about 3 collocations you know Write them down on a piece of paper and exchange it with a classmate.
Look at the italicized parts in the following sentences extracted from the text:
[3.1] Different materials can be combined and grouped by the types of materials combined or the way the materials are arranged together to create a more complex material.
[3.2] These materials are usually synthesized, improved or designed to achieve high performance in very specific tasks.
The passive voice in English is formed using the structure "be + past participle," which shifts the focus from the subject performing the action to the object receiving it This grammatical form is also present in several other European languages, highlighting its significance in altering the emphasis of a sentence.
[3.4] Two thousand people are employed by this company.
The passive voice is prevalent in scientific writing, including materials technology documents, as it conveys objectivity (Ananda, 2012) Understanding this structure is essential for effective communication in the field.
Activity 3 The following sentences are in the active voice with the subject “people” being unclear or unnecessary Rewrite them, emphasizing the action rather than the agent of the action.
1 People use epoxy coatings to prevent corrosive agents, such as water and salts, from coming into contact with rebar.
2 In this book, people will fully examine the biocompatibility of different materials.
3 People can activate multifunctional materials by electrical stimuli so as to produce their geometry change or property change.
4 People introduce raw materials of biopolymers and they review their active behaviors in terms of electronic and ionic working behaviors.
5 People form composite materials from two or more distinct phases of materials.
6 People have well recognized the development of composite material technology in recreational boats
THE RHYTHMIC PATTERNS IN COLLOCATIONS
In spoken English, the pronunciation of individual words differs from their pronunciation in sequences As a stress-timed language, English speakers aim to maintain equal intervals between stressed syllables, often resulting in the weak pronunciation of non-essential words to create rhythm in phrases.
Conjunctions, pronouns, prepositions, auxiliaries and articles are often lost in a phrase These are some examples: at the center of
Instead of pronouncing in the strong form: /ổt ðə ˈsentə ʌv/, we tend to pronounce this phrase as /ət ðə ˈsentə əv/. switch from … to …
For this collocation, the preposition from and to are often pronounced in the weak forms /frəm/ and /tə/.
In Activity 4, focus on creating rhythmic patterns through collocations while practicing weak forms Key phrases to incorporate include "come to an agreement," "make a mistake," "perform an experiment," "pay respects to," "conduct a survey," "run out of time," and "draw attention to."
Can you tell what kind of words that need the strong form of pronunciation in a collocation?
In this activity, you will listen to a talk about an incredible new high-tech product As you listen, fill in each numbered gap with a word or phrase from the provided list Some words and phrases will not be needed This exercise aims to measure your understanding of the content and enhance your listening skills.
Scientists have developed the smallest electric motor ever created, showcasing an incredible feat of scientific innovation Dr Charles Sykes and his team from Tufts University in the United States constructed this motor from a single molecule measuring just a billionth of a meter wide Dr Sykes is currently collaborating with the Guinness Book of World Records to have his motor officially recognized as the smallest in existence The current record holder is a 200-nanometer-long carbon nanotube, making Dr Sykes' creation a groundbreaking achievement in nanotechnology.
The researchers aim for their creation, which is 200 times smaller than existing technologies, to have applications in powering the smallest machines ever constructed, as well as in assisting doctors with nano-surgery.
Scientists have successfully created the first electric motor made from a single molecule, marking a significant breakthrough in energy conversion This innovative motor, developed by Dr Sykes, uniquely transforms light and chemical energy into continuous movement, operating at an impressive rate of 50 times per second Dr Sykes envisions a future where this miniature motor can be linked to other molecules, functioning like tiny cog-wheels to perform useful work.
(Adapted from Breaking News English, September 7, 2011)
Activity 6 Work in pairs Choose one of the following suggested questions to discuss When you have finished, present your ideas in class.
1 Do you think the molecule motor is a feat of scientific genius?
2 How do you think scientists can work with and make things that are a billionth of a meter wide?
3 What uses do you think the motor will have for mankind?
4 When do you think nanotechnology will be a widely used part of our life?
5 How might nanotechnology help medicine?
6 Why do you think people are interested in nanotechnology?
7 What would the inventors of the first motors over a hundred years ago think of a nanotechnology motor?
(Adapted from Breaking News English, September 7, 2011)
Activity 7 Read the following passage and do the tasks that follow.
All matter is made up of the atoms of different elements There are more than 100 known elements found in nature Each element has certain physical properties
METALLIC MATERIALS
By the end of this unit, students will be able to
• describe general characteristics of metals in English, using adjectives;
• explain or give additional information by using relative clauses;
• pronounce the materials-related words correctly;
• comprehend a reading passage about materials technology;
• write a descriptive paragraph about a kind of metal.
Read the text and examine the words in bold typeface.
Metals are essential materials in our world, playing a crucial role in various applications While some items, like forks, can be made from plastic, vital structures such as skyscrapers, bridges, vehicles, home appliances, tools, pipes, and jet planes rely heavily on metals Their unique properties make them indispensable in modern construction and technology.
Quite simply, metals are primarily made up of metallic elements Metals tend to be solids at room temperature and atmospheric pressure, except for mercury, which is a liquid.
Metals exhibit a shiny and opaque appearance, characterized by high melting temperatures that contribute to their strength This makes them ideal for various applications in transportation and construction.
The metallic elements are electropositive and are quite willing to give up or share their valence electrons The valence electrons are
Free electrons in metals are not confined to specific atoms; instead, they create a "cloud" or "sea of electrons" that envelops the metallic ion cores This electron arrangement is crucial for forming metallic bonds, which hold the atoms together to create a solid structure An analogy for this phenomenon is likening the electrons to the dough that binds the chocolate chips in a cookie.
Free electrons in metals play a crucial role in explaining various effects observed in these materials These electrons are highly mobile, allowing them to travel significant distances, which leads to the generation of electrical currents and results in the high electrical conductivity characteristic of metals Additionally, the rapid movement of free electrons enables metals to efficiently dissipate heat, making them feel cold to the touch Consequently, metals are recognized as excellent conductors of both electricity and heat.
Metals share common characteristics, but their properties can differ significantly For instance, ductile and malleable metals like copper and gold contrast with brittle metals such as magnesium and beryllium.
Metals remain essential in contemporary society, serving as a vital resource with numerous applications Scientists and engineers in materials science and metallurgy continually explore new alloys that offer innovative functions and uses.
Activity 1 Match the word/phrase with its definition.
1 shiny A electrically positive; tending to lose electrons and form positive ions in chemical reactions
2 opaque B hard but easily broken
3 electropositive C that can be made into a thin wire
4 mobile D not clear enough to see through or allow light through
5 thermal E easily changed into a new shape
8 brittle H moving or walking around freely
Activity 2 Complete the sentences by filling in each numbered gap with a word in activity 1 You may not use all the words.
1 As the electrons propagate inside the target, they ionize the material, which becomes ……… to the probe.
2 Lead and tin are ……… metals.
3 Hard and ……… materials are widely used in the electronics industry, especially semiconductor materials like silicon.
4 The ……… corner of the glass door caused an erroneous reflection.
5 Steel is a kind of ……… metal and its main element is iron.
6 Carbides are a class of compounds composed of carbon and an
Relative clauses are common in many European languages to provide clarity about a person or object However, this grammatical feature is absent in some Asian languages, such as Vietnamese, which lacks relative pronouns and, consequently, relative clauses (Diệp Quang Ban).
1989; Hoàng Trọng Phiến, 2008) For this reason, a good command of this special grammatical point is of great importance, especially in reading science, and is essential for Vietnamese learners of English
Let us have a look back at the text, and observe the italicized parts of the sentences:
[4.1] Metals tend to be solids at room temperature and atmospheric pressure, except for mercury, which is a liquid.
[4.2] … there are other properties that can greatly vary.
Relative clauses, indicated in italics, provide additional information about the preceding noun, as seen in example [4.1], or they clarify and limit the meaning of the noun, as demonstrated in example [4.2] The terms "which" and "that" serve as relative pronouns within these clauses.
A restrictive relative clause is essential for specifying the person or thing being discussed For example, in the sentence "Marie Curie is the female scientist who discovered radium," the clause clarifies her identity Similarly, "This is the house which my grandfather built" uses a restrictive clause to identify the specific house.
In restrictive relative clauses, "that" can replace "who" or "which." Additionally, the pronoun can be omitted if it serves as the object of the relative clause.
[4.3b] Marie Curie is the female scientist that discovered radium. [4.4b] This is the house that my grandfather built.
[4.4c] This is the house that my grandfather built.
2 We use a non-restrictive (or non-defining) relative clause when we want to give more information about a person/thing/situation.
[4.5] My uncle Tom, who is 80, is a big fan of Tottenham Hotspur. [4.6] We had fish and chips, which I always enjoy.
With a non-restrictive relative clause, we use commas (,) to separate it from the rest of the sentence We cannot use that to replace who/which
A non-restrictive relative clause can also be used to give more information about the whole sentence as in [4.7] below:
I had a pleasant surprise when I met Rebecca in town yesterday This article emphasizes the complexity of relative clauses, specifically focusing on defining relative clauses in the upcoming activity.
Activity 3 Add the phrase in brackets to the sentence using a relative clause.
1 She bought the computer (her brother had recommended the computer).
2 Biopolymers are renewable materials (these materials harmonize with the environment).
3 It is natural to develop smart materials (these materials can be renewable in the nature).
4 The development of polymer coatings has been investigated (these coatings react to environmental stimuli, such as heat or pH changes, to initiate crack healing).
5 Students will be prepared with both language and knowledge about materials technology (these students enroll in the course English for Materials Technology).
Sentence stress refers to the rhythmic pattern of stressed and unstressed words in a sentence, akin to musical notes While word stress emphasizes specific syllables, sentence stress highlights certain words, creating a "beat" that enhances the overall meaning and flow of the sentence.
Sentences consist of two main types of words: content words and structure words Content words, including nouns, verbs, adjectives, and adverbs, convey the essential meaning of a sentence In contrast, structure words, such as pronouns, prepositions, articles, conjunctions, and auxiliary verbs, are necessary for grammatical correctness.
In general, the basic rules of sentence stress are:
• the time between stressed words is always the same
English is a stress-timed language, meaning that the intervals between stressed words are consistent This rhythmic pattern can be illustrated by counting: "one two three four, one and two and three and four, one and a two and a three and a four, one and then a two and then a three and then a four."
Activity 4 Now underline the stressed words in the following sentences and then read them aloud.
1 The kids are at the park.
2 Do you have any brothers or sisters?
3 Why aren’t you doing your homework?
4 He bought a red car for his daughter.
5 We are not familiar with this new computer program.
6 The athlete ran quickly and won the competition.
7 I don’t know the answer, either.
8 I’ve never heard of that before, but it makes sense.
In this activity, you will listen to an introduction to 'Four Types of Steel.' The steel can be categorized based on its microstructure and composition Each type is classified into a sub-category that highlights its unique properties The industry often focuses on the maximum and minimum concentration of alloys to determine the steel's performance in various applications.
THE FOUR TYPES OF STEEL
At metal supermarket we find it useful to group steel into four categories using the acronym CAST This stands for Carbon steel, Alloy steel, Stainless steel and Tool steel
CERAMIC MATERIALS
By the end of this unit, students will be able to
• describe general characteristics of ceramics in English, using compound adjectives;
• use compound adjectives appropriately in terms of function and form;
• use correct stress in compound adjectives;
• talk about the benefits and shortcomings of ceramics;
• write a pros-and-cons paragraph about ceramics.
Read the text and examine the expressions in bold typeface.
Ceramics encompass a wide range of nonmetallic and inorganic materials, including glass, tiles, pottery, porcelain, bricks, cement, diamond, and graphite.
Bricks, pottery, glass, porcelain, tiles, cement, and concrete are versatile, time-tested ceramics with various applications For instance, tiles can be used both indoors and outdoors, on walls, floors, or roofs, while glass serves multiple purposes, from windows to smartphone screens These materials have a rich history, showcasing their enduring significance.
Advanced ceramics are engineered for specific applications, such as silicon nitrides and tungsten carbides, which are used to create exceptionally hard cutting tools These modern engineered ceramics primarily consist of metal oxides, carbides, and nitrides, formed by combining metal atoms with oxygen, carbon, or nitrogen Notable examples include tungsten carbide and silicon carbide for cutting tools, aluminum oxide and silicon dioxide for microchips, and lithium-silicon oxide for heat-protective nose cones on space rockets Additionally, high-temperature superconductors are composed of yttrium, barium, copper, and oxygen crystals.
Not all high-tech ceramic materials are simple compounds; some are composite materials where the ceramic acts as a matrix reinforced with fibers from another material, often carbon fibers or different ceramics These are known as ceramic matrix composites (CMCs) An example is the silicon carbide fibers embedded in a silicon carbide matrix (SiC/SiC), which features boron nitride at the interface, and is utilized in advanced gas-turbine jet engines.
A compound adjective is a multi-word descriptor, typically consisting of two words but potentially longer These adjectives are usually connected by hyphens to indicate that they function as a single adjective.
A compound adjective does not always consist of two singular adjectives; it can include various word classes Here are some common types of compound adjectives.
[5.1] a three-page document the twentieth-century technology
[5.2] a long-term contract a high-quality product
[5.3] a world-famous scientist a brand-new computer
[5.4] a tight-fitting lid long-lasting effects
[5.5] a thought-provoking idea a record-breaking invention
[5.6] wind-powered generators fiber-reinforced plastics
[5.7] a sharp-minded scholar a warm-hearted teacher
The formation of compound adjectives in the given noun phrases involves combining two or more words to create a descriptive term For instance, "one-way" describes a ticket that is valid for a single direction, while "time-saving" characterizes a device that helps to save time Similarly, "gluten-free" indicates cookies that do not contain gluten, and "water-resistant" refers to a watch that can withstand exposure to water Lastly, "open-access" denotes a resource that is freely available to the public.
COMPOUND ADJECTIVES: FUNCTION AND FORM
What function does a compound adjective perform in a sentence?
A compound adjective can function as either attributive, appearing before the noun it modifies, or predicative, positioned after linking verbs like BE, BECOME, GET, or TURN.
What form does a compound adjective take when it performs different functions in a sentence?
• When a compound adjective is attributive, it must be written with a hyphen:
[5.8] This material is fiber-reinforced plastic.
• When a compound adjective functioning as predicative has the second component as an adjective, a present participle, a past participle or a form of Noun-ED, it is written with a hyphen in between.
[5.9] The girl is good-looking and good-natured.
• When a compound adjective functioning as predicative has other structures, it is written as two separate words (without a hyphen).
[5.10] The rug is reddish brown
The product is high quality.
Activity 2 Identify the functions (attributive or predicative) of the compound adjectives in the sentences.
1 Bricks, pottery, glass and porcelain are some of the time-tested ceramics.
2 We can still think that these materials are general-purpose.
3 High-temperature superconductors are made from crystals of yttrium, barium, copper, and oxygen.
4 The nose cones on space rockets are heat-protective.
5 Some high-tech ceramic materials can be used in cutting-edge gas-turbine jet engines
In compound adjectives, both parts are stressed The stronger stress usually falls on the second component of two-word compound adjectives. long-lasting
In two-word adjectives where one component is a noun, the stress often emphasizes the noun, regardless of its position For example, in the term "wind-powered," the stress may be placed on "wind."
Activity 3 Look back at the text, pick out the compound adjectives and put them in the appropriate column.
Stressed on the first component Stressed on the second component
International Syalons is a British advanced ceramic manufacturer known for its world-class quality in the fabrication of silicon nitride The company specializes in producing tough, corrosion-resistant materials suitable for automotive applications and non-ferrous micro-components With a focus on innovation, International Syalons holds several patents that enhance the performance and durability of their products, making them a leader in the industry.
International Syalons is the UK's premier manufacturer of sialon and advanced ceramics, having pioneered the production of central silicon nitride in the early 1980s We have consistently advanced our manufacturing capabilities in silicon nitride ceramics and expanded our product range to include zirconia, alumina, and silicon carbide Our ceramics are produced using cutting-edge machining and sintering technologies, including state-of-the-art CNC green machining, gas pressure sintering, and precision diamond grinding, all adhering to ISO standards.
9001 (4)……… In addition, we have in-house mechanical testing capabilities and X-ray diffraction.
International Syalons specializes in advanced ceramic solutions for various applications, including molten metal handling, oil and gas, friction and wear, chemical processing, and aerospace Our silicon nitride materials, known as 'sialon,' exhibit a diverse range of properties, from high strength to extreme hardness These materials not only demonstrate excellent wear and corrosion resistance but also possess remarkable thermal shock resistance when in contact with molten metals With a robust R&D setup, we are actively developing innovative processes such as 3D printing of complex components and advancing the next generation of silicon nitride materials.
Activity 5 Work in groups, and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of ceramics Note them down.
When you speak, use the following expressions to signal that you are giving your opinion:
From my point of view,
My opinion/belief is that
If you agree with a member of your group, use the following expressions:
I agree with you/him/her
I share your/his/her view
If you disagree with a member of your group, use the following expressions:
I don’t agree with what you say.
I don’t share your/his/her view.
APPLICATIONS OF FIBER-REINFORCED PLASTICS
Fiber-reinforced plastics (FRP) are composite materials made by combining a polymer matrix with reinforcing fibers to improve mechanical strength and elasticity Commonly used fibers include basalt, carbon, glass, and aramid, while some variations may incorporate asbestos, wood, or paper.
Fiber-reinforced plastics (FRP) are ideal for designs requiring weight reduction, precision engineering, and simplified production processes Their low weight and high strength make them appealing to various industries, including automotive, aerospace, shipbuilding, and construction.
The Airbus A310's rudder, made from carbon-FRP, achieves a 25% weight reduction compared to traditional aluminum sheeting Similarly, the Airbus A350 XWB incorporates 52% carbon-FRP in its design, including wing spars and fuselage components This use of lightweight materials not only reduces production costs but also contributes to significant weight savings, resulting in improved fuel efficiency and lower operational costs for airlines.
POLYMERIC MATERIALS
By the end of this unit, students will be able to
• describe general characteristics of polymers in English, using complex adjectives and relative clauses;
• realize and use words containing Greek-origin suffixes in materials technology;
• apply the appropriate rhythmic patterns in different types of relative clauses;
• comprehend spoken and written texts about products as applications of polymer technology;
• produce a piece of writing that comprises different paragraphs of different types
Read the text and examine the expressions in bold typeface.
Polymers are large macromolecules made up of numerous subunits, with the term derived from Greek meaning "many parts." They are ubiquitous in our environment, ranging from naturally occurring biopolymers like DNA to synthetic materials such as polypropylene, widely used in plastic production.
Polymers can be classified into natural polymers, which occur in plants and animals, and synthetic polymers, which are created by humans These diverse polymers possess distinct physical and chemical properties, making them essential in various applications in our daily lives.
Polymers are formed through polymerization, a process where monomers react to create polymer chains The specific polymerization mechanism utilized is determined by the functional groups present in the reactants In biological systems, most macromolecules are either entirely polymeric or consist of extensive polymeric chains.
Polymers can be categorized into three main types based on their source: natural, semi-synthetic, and synthetic Natural polymers, derived from plants and animals, include substances like starch, cellulose, proteins, and natural rubber Semi-synthetic polymers are modified versions of natural polymers that undergo chemical transformations, with examples such as cellulose nitrate and cellulose acetate In contrast, synthetic polymers are artificially created in laboratories, with common examples including polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, nylon, and synthetic rubbers.
Polymers possess unique characteristics, including chemical resistance, lightweight strength, and thermal and electrical insulation properties Their diverse applications span various fields, such as agriculture, where they enhance soil aeration, provide mulch, and support plant health In medicine, polymers like Dacron, Teflon, and polyurethane are essential for creating biomaterials, including heart valve replacements and blood vessels Additionally, polymers are widely utilized in the industrial market for automobile parts, fighter plane windshields, pipes, tanks, packing materials, insulation, wood substitutes, adhesives, composite matrices, and elastomers.
Greek-origin prefixes have significantly shaped English vocabulary, particularly in scientific fields Many English words are created by combining fundamental terms with various prefixes and suffixes Understanding the basic meanings of these prefixes and suffixes can enhance your vocabulary.
In this unit, you will familiarize yourselves with some Greek prefixes you often encounter in the language of materials technology.
Prefixes play a crucial role in understanding the meanings of various terms For instance, "aero-" or "aer-" pertains to air, as seen in "aeration." The prefix "auto-" signifies self or same, exemplified by "automobile." "Bio-" relates to life or living organisms, as in "biomaterials." The prefix "macro-" indicates something large or on a large scale, such as "macromolecule," while "micro-" refers to small or on a small scale, like "microchip." "Nano-" denotes an extremely small scale, as in "nanomaterials." The prefix "mono-" means one or single, represented by "monomers," whereas "poly-" indicates many, as in "polymers." Additionally, "syn-" implies a combination or togetherness, seen in "synthesis," and "thermo-" or "therm-" relates to heat, as in "thermal."
Activity 1 Add a suitable prefix to each word/part of a word to make a new word Some words/parts of words can combine with more than one prefix.
In Unit 4, we explored relative clauses that start with "who" and "which" (or "that"), which modify the noun that comes before them This unit shifts our focus to relative clauses initiated by other relative words, including "whose" (indicating possession), as well as "where," "when," and "why," which are categorized as relative adverbs.
‘Whose’ replaces a possessive It is always in the subject of the relative clause and followed by a noun phrase for people and things It cannot be omitted.
[6.1] The little girl whose doll was lost is sad.
(The little girl is sad The little girl’s doll was lost.)
We can sometimes use these words instead of relative pronouns and prepositions.
[6.2] This is the shop where I bought my bike.
= This is the shop in which I bought my bike.
(This is the shop I bought my bike in this shop.) [6.3] The summer when I graduated from university was long and hot.
= The summer in which I graduated was long and hot. (The summer was long and hot I graduated [from university] in the summer.)
[6.4] No one knew the reason why he left.
= No one knew the reason for which he left.
When a verb in a relative clause requires a preposition, it is typically placed at the end of the clause If the preposition appears before the relative pronoun, it cannot be used For instance, consider the phrase "listen to."
[6.5] The music which/that Julie listens to is good.
= The music to which Julie listens is good. work with
[6.6] My brother met a woman who/whom/that I used to work with
= My brother met a woman with whom I used to work. apply for
[6.7] The job which/that she applied for is well paid.
= The job for which she applied is well paid.
Note that when we put the preposition before the relative pronoun, we only use whom and which ( that is never used).
Activity 2 Choose the best relative word for each sentence.
1 February, which is the second month of the year, is the month
………… many of my colleagues take vacation for skiing.
2 The dress ………… the movie star is wearing weighs about fifty pounds.
3 The old words you see on the board, most _ were becoming obsolete, are now trending again.
4 The family ………… house was decorated the most beautifully for the holidays will receive a trophy.
5 You are allowed to have just half an hour, after ………… you are supposed to submit your exam paper.
6 There are no special reasons ………… I should meet her one day.
7 When we reached our arranged holiday resort, ………… we were planning to spend two weeks, we realized that it was not worth it.
8 As soon as the 12-year-old genius attended by his father climbed on the stage, ………… he was going to give a short account of his success, everyone burst into applause.
9 Mary resigned from her post after she was rejected for promotion,
………… did not surprise us at all.
10 Do you know the exact time ………… our orders will be delivered at?
11 Ezgi is among the few students ………… we can rely for the organization of the charity exhibition.
12 Is it not really important whether Ahmet has come or not as long as he has sent us the agreement ………… by our rivals?
A that signed B that was signed
NOTES ON THE PRONUNCIATION IN RELATIVE CLAUSES
1 The rhythmic patterns in relative clauses
Restrictive relative clauses are woven into the main sentence structure, while non-restrictive relative clauses stand alone as distinct intonation units This distinction is evident in writing through the use of punctuation, typically commas, and occasionally stronger punctuation like dashes or parentheses.
2 The strong form of preposition at the end of the relative clauses
When a preposition precedes the relative pronoun in a relative clause, it is pronounced in the weak form Conversely, if the preposition appears at the end of the relative clause, it is pronounced in the strong form For instance, in the examples provided, the preposition is pronounced as /tuː/ in the strong form and /tə/ in the weak form.
(a) The music which/that Julie listens to is good.
(b) The music to which Julie listens is good.
The speaker’s use of the strong form or weak form of prepositions in relative clauses helps the hearer realize the grammatical structure and interpret the message properly.
Now that you have finished completing 12 sentences in activity
2, speak aloud those sentences to practice the weak and strong form pronunciation in the relative clauses.
Activity 4 You are going to listen to a talk about 3D printing – an application of polymer in life Listen and do the tasks.
In the medical field, many factories utilize computer-generated devices to create prosthetics using liquid polymers These materials can be formed into thin layers or thick layers, depending on the specific requirements of the manufacturing process The esthetic and practical uses of these prosthetics are becoming increasingly familiar to both patients and healthcare providers, as they offer similar functionality to standard options while enhancing comfort and appearance.
A 3D printer is a versatile device that creates objects from digital models While they may appear complex, 3D printers operate similarly to regular printers Instead of ink, a 3D printer uses nozzles filled with a waxy substance that solidifies quickly Following computer instructions, these nozzles build up layers of polymer from the bottom to the top Although many people use 3D printers for fun items like toys or figurines, this technology has significant applications, particularly in the medical field Scientists have utilized 3D printers to create prosthetics for injured and disabled patients, making it a cost-effective alternative to traditional manufacturing methods.
II Answer the comprehension questions by choosing an appropriate option.
1 The nozzles of a standard 3D printer contain …………
2 A 3D printer creates an object by …………
A building up layers of polymer
B making a mold to fill with polymer
C using an existing object as a model
3 Scientists have used 3D printers to …………
Polymers, while highly useful in various applications, pose potential hazards to both the environment and human health due to their chemical composition The persistence of synthetic polymers in nature can lead to significant ecological damage, as they do not easily decompose Additionally, individuals with frequent exposure to certain polymers may experience health risks, including respiratory issues and skin irritations It is crucial to understand these risks to mitigate the negative impacts of polymer use and promote safer alternatives.
Activity 6 Read the passage about a new advanced material and choose the best answer to each of the questions.
NEW, SUPER-THIN MATERIAL COOLS BUILDINGS
Engineers from the University of Colorado Boulder have developed a groundbreaking super-thin material that can effectively cool buildings even in direct sunlight, without requiring energy or water This innovative glass-polymer hybrid, measuring just 50 micrometers thick—slightly thicker than aluminum foil—offers a potential alternative to traditional air conditioning systems, which are costly to operate and consume significant water resources.