developments in new materials

Question 1

modern material

Answer 1

a material that has been designed using new and inventive technology and manufacturing processes, developed with a specific function in mind

Question 2

graphene appearance, properties, uses

Answer 2

• ultra-thin layer of graphite, made entirely of carbon atoms
• transparent, strong and light, conductor
• medical equipment, defence, technology, solar cells

Question 3

metal foam appearance, properties, uses

Answer 3

• metal has gas/air injected into it while in liquid form
• strong under compression, lightweight, conductor, porous, absorbs sound
• prosthetics, soundproofing, crash protection

Question 4

titanium appearance, properties, uses

Answer 4

• light grey, polished to give a mirror finish
• high strength to weight ratio, corrosion resistant, withstand extreme temps, expensive
• prosthetics, aircraft and spacecraft, alloys, jewellery

Question 5

two types of modern materials

Answer 5

• Developments made through the invention of new or
  improved processes
• Alterations to perform a particular function

Question 6

coated metals

Answer 6

• properties of metals can be improved by adding another material
• to increase strength and resistance to corrosion
• e.g nickel-plated steel, galvanised steel

Question 7

liquid crystal displays

Answer 7

• flat panel displays that use liquid crystals to control light emission and create an image
• when voltage is applied to liquid crystals they change shape and allow different levels of light to pass through, thereby creating an image
• thin, lightweight, energy-efficient
• used in tvs, computer, watches

Question 8

nanomaterials

Answer 8

• contain particles less than 100 nm in size
• large s.a to v ratio, improves strength, conductivity, reactivity
• e.g carbon nanotubes used in electronics, sport equipment
• cosmetics, suncreams, deodorants

Question 9

composite materials

Answer 9

produced by combining two or more different materials to create an enhanced material

Question 10

glass reinforced plastic

Answer 10

• combines glass fibres with a thermosetting plastic
• lightweight, strong and resistant material
• used in boat hulls and car bodies

Question 11

carbon reinforced plastic

Answer 11

• combines carbon fibres with a thermosetting plastic
• more rigid, stronger, lighter than GRP
• more expensive and brittle
• supercars, luxury yachts, prosthetics