Aluminium has low density (is light), is strong and is corrosion-resistant.

Useful properties

  • Lightweight (low density).
  • It can be bent and shaped into, say, car body panels.
  • It's strong and rigid when required.
  • It doesn't corrode due to a protective layer of oxide which always quickly covers it.
  • It's a good conductor of heat and electricity.
It's not as strong as steel, however, and is a bit more expensive.

Common uses-

  • Ladders.
  • Aeroplanes.
  • Car body panels.
  • Drink cans. Tin-plated steel ones can rust if damaged.
  • Greenhouses and window frames.
  • Power cables.