Aluminium is the most widely used non-ferrous metal.

It has low density and an ability to resist corrosion. It is a soft, durable, lightweight, ductile and malleable metal.

Aluminium is non-magnetic, does not easily ignite and can be an excellent light reflector. It has about one-third the density and stiffness of steel, is easily machined, cast, drawn and extruded.

Aluminium wire mesh is a good thermal and electrical conductor, having 59% the conductivity of copper, both thermal and electrical.