topic 1.7 Flashcards
(25 cards)
What are Smart Materials?
React to external stimuli (e.g., heat, light, moisture) and return to original state when stimulus is removed.
Smart materials are designed to change their properties in response to environmental changes.
What are Modern Materials?
Recently developed materials with enhanced properties, not necessarily reactive.
Modern materials focus on improved performance without the need for external stimuli.
What is a Shape Memory Alloy (SMA)?
Changes shape when heated (e.g., Nitinol)
Used in applications like glasses frames and medical stents.
What do Thermochromic Pigments do?
Change colour with temperature
Commonly found in baby spoons and thermometers.
What is the use of Photochromic Pigments?
Change colour with light (UV exposure)
Found in transition lenses and novelty clothing.
What do Phosphorescent Pigments do?
Absorb light and glow in the dark
Used in safety signs, toys, and watch dials.
Hydrochromic Pigments respond to _______.
water or moisture
Applications include packaging and novelty products.
What are Piezoelectric Materials?
Generate electric charge under mechanical stress or vibrate when powered
Utilized in sensors, alarms, and microphones.
What is Electroluminescent Wire?
Glows when electric current passes through
Used in decorative lighting and clothing.
What are the properties of Kevlar?
Extremely strong, lightweight, heat-resistant
Commonly used in bulletproof vests and protective gloves.
Graphene is characterized as being _______.
one-atom thick, strong, lightweight, excellent electrical and thermal conductivity
Applications include electronics and medical tech.
What is Polymorph?
Mouldable at low temp (~62°C), reusable thermoplastic
Used for ergonomic handles and prototypes.
What is Precious Metal Clay?
Fine metal powder + binder, can be shaped by hand and fired in a kiln (~700°C)
Commonly used in jewellery and decorative arts.
Cornstarch Polymers are _______.
biodegradable and made from corn starch
They serve as an alternative to petroleum plastics.
What does Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) do?
Electric current controls light through liquid crystals
Found in screens like phones and TVs.
Why is Responsiveness important in Smart/Modern Materials?
Allows materials to adapt to user needs or environment.
Essential for enhancing user experience.
How does being Lightweight benefit materials like graphene and Kevlar?
Improves usability and portability.
Important for applications in safety gear and consumer electronics.
Why is Strength a key property in materials?
Important in safety-critical products.
Ensures reliability in protective equipment.
What is the significance of Conductivity in tech applications?
Required for tech applications (e.g., graphene, piezoelectric).
Vital for efficient electronic devices.
Sustainability in materials refers to _______.
eco-friendly alternatives
Examples include cornstarch polymers and biodegradable plastics.
What are some applications of Smart and Modern Materials in Product Design?
- Safety gear
- Consumer electronics
- Fashion and wearables
- Prototyping and modelling
- Medical tech
- Packaging
These applications leverage the unique properties of these materials.
What impact does Biodegradability have on materials?
Some modern materials like bioplastics break down more easily.
This contributes to environmental sustainability.
True or False: Some smart materials may release harmful chemicals.
True
This raises toxicity concerns in certain applications.
What is a consideration regarding the resource use of materials like Graphene and Kevlar?
Require energy-intensive processes.
This can have a significant environmental impact.
