What information does a materials datasheet typically include?

A materials datasheet typically includes mechanical properties and chemical composition because these aspects are essential for understanding how the material will perform in various applications. Mechanical properties such as tensile strength, elasticity, and hardness are critical for engineers and designers to ensure the material will withstand the required stresses and loads in a given application. Meanwhile, the chemical composition provides insight into the material's structure and behavior under different conditions, including its durability, corrosion resistance, and compatibility with other substances.

The other options, while relevant in various contexts, are not standard components of a materials datasheet. Cost analysis and supplier information may be included in procurement documents but are not part of the technical specifications. Environmental impact assessments are important for sustainability considerations but typically fall under separate reporting. Historical usage and recommendations can aid decision-making but are often not detailed in standard datasheets that focus primarily on the raw material data. This concentration on core technical data makes the first option the most accurate representation of what a materials datasheet provides.