Density of Aluminium

The density of aluminium is about 2,710kg/m3. The density of the alloys of aluminium does not vary widely from this figure ranging between 2,640kg/m3 and 2,810kg/m3.

Aluminium alloy density

The density of aluminium is unique in various ways and makes this material the popular choice for many applications. Some of the benefits aluminium has to offer include:

• Lightweight

Aluminium has a low density, which means it is lightweight and easy to move. For this reason, it is preferred metal choice when building aeroplanes. While being lightweight, the material is also very strong and easy to shape, making it the perfect choice for manufacturing.

• Resistance to corrosion

Aluminium forms a thin layer of its oxide on the surface of the metal. This keeps air and water from getting into the metal which causes corrosion. Because of this oxide, the metal is resistant to corrosion making it more reliable.

• Recyclable

Another impressive property of aluminium is the fact that it can be recycled 100%. This makes aluminium an environmentally friendly metal and also saves its ore from being depleted. The process of recycling aluminium is low cost and does not deplete the quality and properties of the material.

• Electrical and thermal conductivity

In relation to its weight, aluminium is twice as a good a conductor as copper. It is an excellent conductor of heat and electricity and so commonly used in most major power transmission lines.

Physical Properties

Aluminum is easily identified from its silvery-white color with a bluish tint. In its pure form, it is a soft metal, but when alloyed, it hardens and becomes strong.

Because of its soft nature, it’s possible to beat aluminium into extremely thin sheet. Aluminum is also malleable and can be shaped or bent depending on the requirements of the project in question.

It’s an excellent electrical and heat conductor and can with stand corrosion by forming a self-protecting oxide coating.  

Chemical Properties

Aluminum has various chemical properties. It occurs as a compound mainly in bauxite which is a mixture of aluminium and oxygen and other elements. Bauxite is the main source of aluminium.

 When exposed to oxygen, it reacts slowly to form protective aluminium oxide.

Aluminium reacts with various liquids among them various hot acids and it also quickly reacts with hot water.

 Aluminium also reacts with alkalis like limewater and sodium hydroxide and combines with various elements like magnesium, copper and silicon to form incredibly strong alloys.