Smart materials

Question 1

Thermochromic Inks

Answer 1

Inks that change colour with temperature.

Applications: 2d temperature gauge, Useful on marketing material (eg image only visible when at certain temp.)

Question 2

Electro-rheostatic (ER)

Answer 2

Thick fluid that changes to nearly solid in millisecond when exposed to electric field; effect can be reversed when field is removed.
Applications: Viscous clutches, valves

Question 3

Polymorph

Answer 3

Supplied as granules. When heated to 62 degrees or above in water they form a plyable solid.

Useful for forming : Handles/grips, Complex shapes, Prototype patterns for casting or moulding.

Question 4

Piezoelectric Materials

Answer 4

When deformed, they generate a small but measurable electrical current. When an electrical current is applied, they change size. (up to 4% change in volume)
Applications: Sensors, Buzzers, Low quality speakers

Question 5

Smart Springs

Answer 5

At room temperature the spring is fully extended manually. Heating up/applying a small electric current will make spring return to its original position and carry a load.
Applications: Emergency shutter in case of fire, Bin lids, windows

Question 6

Quantum Tunnelling Composite (QTC)

Answer 6

Conductor of electricity, measures force of touch in touch screen things.

Possible Applications: Pressure sensor, 2d electronic switches,Touch screens on phones etc

Question 7

Photochromic Materials

Answer 7

Materials that change colour when exposed to light
Possible Applications: Energy-efficient windows (switch from transparent to opaque upon exposure to high levels of sunlight.), Sunglasses

Question 8

Smart grease

Answer 8

Used to control movement, producing a dampened, slowed down feeling.

Applications: Volume control knobs, microscope slides

Question 9

Conductive polymers

Answer 9

Advantages of making plastics conductors are:

• easier to manufacture
• lighter and cheaper than metals
• prevent the build-up of static electricity which can damage microcircuits

Question 10

Nanomaterials

Answer 10

Nanoparticles improve the mechanical properties of a material.
Applications: When incorporated into polymers,can be used as lightweight replacements for metals. Efficient insulation and lighting systems.

Question 11

Magneto-rheostatic (MR)

Answer 11

Thick fluid that changes to nearly solid in a millesecond when exposed to magnetic field (effect is reversed when mafnetic field removed)
Applications: Car shocks, damping, washing machine vibration, prosthetic limbs