This book consists of eight chapters on the latest advances in materials science research. Chapter 1 considers the production of nano-layered materials for various functional applications. Chapter 2 presents the results of a research project aimed at increasing the mechanical properties of a rolled sheet of S355 steels, microalloyed with a complex of V-Nb-Al, by means of optimization of its chemical composition and parameters of normalizing heat treatment. Chapter 3 deals with the selection criteria of brake pad material for both dry and wet environmental conditions. The review provides an insight knowledge in the development of dry and wet friction brake pad materials. Chapter 4 explores a strategy for preparing potentially useful iron oxide nanoparticles utilizing ferrocene and its derivates as source materials through the solid state thermal decomposition technique. Chapter 5 presents a detailed review on the recent research directed towards developing epoxy-based materials for radiation shielding applications. Chapter 6 focuses on the evolution of microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) in co-processed excipient technology. In Chapter 7, the drilling and machining behavior such as speed, feed, drill bit type, drill bit diameter, feed rate and their influence of natural fiber reinforced epoxy composites are discussed. In Chapter 8, the physical properties of alkali borate glasses are reviewed, as well as their relation to the changes of microscopic structure such as structural units, bridging and nonbridging oxygens. The mixed alkali effect of borate glass is also discussed.