materiel, matériel, material

Materiel or matériel refers to the equipment, apparatus and supplies (as distinct from personnel) of an organization, especially the military. Materiel and matériel do not require italics.

• Canadian Forces personnel and materiel were greatly appreciated during the Manitoba floods.
• Which do you need more urgently: troops or matériel?

In all other contexts, material is the appropriate choice.

• Thanks to public donations, the refugees’ material needs have been met.
• What kind of material is Francine’s suit made of?
• Once Rudy has the raw materials, he will build a greenhouse.