Bubble wrap is a pliable, transparent material which is commonly used for packing fragile items. It is made up of lots of plastic bubbles filled with air which act as a shock absorber. It is also known as a stress reliever as popping the bubbles can have a relaxing effect. Let’s find out about…

Cotton wool is made of silky fibres taken from a cotton plant. The seeds are removed and the cotton is then bleached and sterilised. It has medical uses as well as cosmetic uses, as it a good at absorbing liquid. Let’s find out about…

Clingfilm is a very thin piece of plastic, most commonly used for wrapping food to keep it fresh. As it made out of plastic it is waterproof and it does not conduct heat or electricity. Let’s find out about…

Tin foil is made of the metal aluminium, which makes it a good conductor of heat and electricity. The metal is made into very thin sheets which are pliable, yet easily damaged. Tin foil is often used for packaging food. Let’s find out about…

Natural rubber was made from a milky liquid found in the sap of some plants. Nowadays, rubber can be made synthetically (not naturally). Rubber is a flexible, waterproof material that is a good insulator. Let’s find out about…

The most common use for paper is writing, printing or packaging. It is made by pressing together moist fibres of wood. It is a flexible material which does not conduct heat or elecricity, nor is it waterproof. Let’s find out about…

Materials Branching Database

Is your material transparent?

Does it have air pockets?

Is it made out of metal?

Is it easy to write on?

Is it soft?