12 Questions
What are smart materials known for?
Returning to their original form when external stimuli are removed
Which type of material can generate electricity when pressure is applied?
Piezoelectric materials
What do shape-memory alloys like nitinol do when heated?
Retain their shape
In what applications are nanomaterials commonly used?
Smartphone screens with coatings to repel water and greasy fingerprints
How are modern textiles like nylon engineered?
For enhanced strength, fire resistance, and water repellence
What do photochromic pigments do when exposed to UV light?
Change properties, such as becoming opaque
Which type of textiles is specifically designed for protecting crops from the sun and insects in farming?
Agrotextiles
What is a key distinguishing characteristic of smart materials?
They exhibit physical changes in response to external stimuli
Which category of composite materials is reinforced with fibres of glass or carbon for strength?
Fibre-based composites
What is a common practical application of Nitinol, a shape-memory alloy mentioned in the text?
Spectacle frames and dental braces
Which type of composites consist of small particles mixed with cement and aggregate?
Particle-based composites
What is a defining characteristic of modern materials mentioned in the text?
They exhibit improved properties compared to traditional materials
Study Notes
Smart Materials
- Known for responding to changes in their environment
- Can change shape, color, or other properties in response to stimuli
Piezoelectric Materials
- Generate electricity when pressure is applied
- Examples: crystals, ceramics, and biological materials
Shape-Memory Alloys
- Change shape when heated or cooled
- Examples: nitinol, which can remember its original shape
Nanomaterials
- Commonly used in applications such as medicine, energy, and electronics
- Due to their unique properties at the nanoscale
Modern Textiles
- Engineered using synthetic materials like nylon
- Often have unique properties such as water resistance or stretchiness
Photochromic Pigments
- Change color when exposed to UV light
- Used in applications such as sunglasses and windows
Agricultural Textiles
- Specifically designed for protecting crops from the sun and insects in farming
- Examples: shading nets, insect screens
Characteristics of Smart Materials
- Ability to respond to changes in their environment
- Can change shape, color, or other properties in response to stimuli
Composite Materials
- Category: fibre-reinforced composites, reinforced with fibres of glass or carbon for strength
- Examples: glass fibre reinforced polymer (GFRP), carbon fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP)
Nitinol Applications
- Commonly used in medical devices, such as stents and dental implants
- Due to its unique shape-memory properties
Composite Materials
- Category: particle-reinforced composites, consist of small particles mixed with cement and aggregate
- Examples: concrete, fibre-cement composites
Defining Characteristics of Modern Materials
- Ability to respond to changes in their environment
- Unique properties due to their structure or composition
Discover the world of modern materials, including ceramics, polymers, and metals, as well as smart materials which exhibit physical changes in response to external stimuli. Learn about shape-memory alloys like nickel titanium (nitinol) that showcase examples of smart innovation.
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