Expanded metal is a form of metal stock made by shearing a metal plate in a press, so that the metal stretches, leaving diamond-shaped voids surrounded by interlinked bars of the metal. It is often shortened to exmet, which also refers to a commercial firm by the same name that manufactures expanded metal
Expanded metal is used in grates and in outdoor furniture (e.g. benches) or fencing. It is often used for guarding to prevent contact with hot surfaces or machinery.
Expanded metal is often used for architectural details.