The electronic devices used by millions of people daily are made of many tiny electronic components and those components are made from a variety of raw materials. These raw materials have special characteristics, ranging from superior conductivity to unmatched insulating properties, that make them perfect for use in electronic components.
Copper is often used for its excellent conductivity and malleability (the ability to be shaped and mashed). Nckel, chromium, aluminum, lead, silver and tin are also used. These metals go into components such as resistors, capacitors and transducers.
Plastics and other petroleum-based materials are used in electronic components mostly for their insulating and heat-resistant properties. Polystyrene, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyvinylchlorate (PVC) are widely used in components such as capacitors and thermistors.
Silicon — considered a metalloid, or semimetal — is used in microchips and semiconductors. Other nonmetal or semimetal materials are antimony, bismuth, cobalt, fluorite, garnet, magnesium and talc.
Ceramics are used as insulators in a variety of electronic components. Certain clays, glasses, calcium (in various forms), gold and carbon (in various forms are also often used.
