Metal

Metals are a class of naturally occurring or refined elements known for their strength, conductivity, and malleability. They’re used in everything from structural frameworks to fine electronics, and have played a central role in human technology since the Bronze Age. Common examples include iron, aluminum, copper, zinc, and titanium. Most metals can be alloyed or treated to enhance specific properties like corrosion resistance or hardness.

Plastic exposure considerations

Many metals experience corrosion, or other forms of degradation, when exposed to the elements. To prevent this, manufacturers have long used coatings such as paint, powder coats, electroplating, and enamels. While electroplating metals doesn’t involve any plastics, and traditional enameling is a glass coating applied to metal and then fired in a kiln, modern paints, powder coats, and enamel paints are made of polymers and thus can expose end users to plastic as they degrade.