Smart Materials

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Questions and Answers

What allows LCDs to be thinner, lighter, and use less power than older display technologies?

The type of glass used

The number of pixels

The presence of nanoparticles

Liquid crystals and backlight control (correct)

What is the main advantage of LCDs over older display technologies like CRTs?

They are thinner, lighter, and use less power (correct)

They have better color reproduction

They are more durable

They have higher refresh rates

How do LCDs create images?

By emitting light from a phosphorescent material

By using a system of mirrors and lenses

By heating and cooling the liquid crystal material

By modifying the polarization of light using liquid crystals (correct)

What is the reversible transformation called when photochromic materials switch between two different forms upon absorbing light?

Photoisomerization Signup and view all the answers

How do photochromic lenses in sunglasses work?

They contain chemicals that react to UV light, making the lenses darker Signup and view all the answers

Apart from sunglasses, where else can photochromic materials be used?

In data storage like CDs or DVDs Signup and view all the answers

When were QTC materials discovered?

1996 Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary limitation of QTC materials at present?

High cost Signup and view all the answers

What phenomenon allows electrons to pass through an insulator when pressure is applied in Quantum Tunneling Composite (QTC) materials?

Quantum tunneling Signup and view all the answers

In which field are QTC materials used to create touch-sensitive fabric panels in suits?

Touch technology Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the applications of QTC materials in robotics?

Developing electronic 'skin' to detect touch and intensity Signup and view all the answers

What is the main characteristic of Quantum Tunneling Composite (QTC) materials?

They use quantum tunneling to allow electrons to pass through an insulator when pressure is applied Signup and view all the answers

Where are QTC materials used to improve technology?

Touch screens Signup and view all the answers

What is the main limitation of the current use of QTC materials?

High cost Signup and view all the answers

What is nitinol?

A mix of nickel and titanium Signup and view all the answers

How are shape memory alloys used in dental wires for braces?

They maintain their shape even after stress has been applied and removed Signup and view all the answers

In which industry can shape memory alloys be used to immediately shut down in the presence of increased heat?

Fire security and protection systems Signup and view all the answers

What is a key advantage of thermo-ceramics compared to other materials?

Dimensional stability at high temperatures Signup and view all the answers

How are thermo-ceramics manufactured?

Through a process called ceramic processing Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of thermo-ceramics?

Withstanding high temperatures in various applications Signup and view all the answers

What are some common examples of thermo-ceramic products?

Thermocouple protection tubes, furnace tubes, insulators Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary characteristic of thermo-ceramics?

High temperature resistance Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a common application of thermo-ceramic products?

Thermocouple protection tubes Signup and view all the answers

Where can thermochromic materials be used to indicate temperature?

Baby bottles Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary characteristic of thermochromic materials?

Ability to change color based on temperature Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

LCD Technology

LCDs (Liquid Crystal Displays) are thinner, lighter, and consume less power due to the use of liquid crystals and backlighting, eliminating the need for bulky components found in older technologies like CRTs (Cathode Ray Tubes).
The main advantage of LCDs over CRTs is their compact size and lightweight design, enabling more versatile applications in various devices.
Images in LCDs are created by manipulating the orientation of liquid crystals when exposed to electric current, which modifies light passing through them to produce colors and images.

Photochromic Materials

The reversible transformation when photochromic materials switch forms upon light absorption is known as photochromism.
Photochromic lenses in sunglasses darken in response to UV light exposure, providing protection from glare and harmful rays.
Beyond sunglasses, photochromic materials are also utilized in optical devices, smart windows, and certain types of photography.

Quantum Tunneling Composite (QTC) Materials

QTC materials were discovered in the late 20th century, specifically in the 1990s.
The primary limitation of QTC materials today is their sensitivity to environmental factors, which can affect their performance and reliability.
Quantum tunneling allows electrons to pass through an insulator under pressure, a critical feature of QTC materials, enabling conductivity in response to force.
QTC materials are used in the creation of touch-sensitive fabric panels for wearable technology and smart suits, enhancing interactivity.
In robotics, QTC materials serve in pressure sensors and switches that respond to touch or proximity, improving operational functionality.

Shape Memory Alloys (SMA)

Nitinol is a type of shape memory alloy known for its unique ability to return to a predetermined shape when heated.
Shape memory alloys like nitinol are used in dental wires for braces, allowing them to maintain tension and guide teeth into alignment when exposed to body heat.
In the aerospace industry, shape memory alloys can immediately engage mechanisms that shut down systems when exposed to excessive heat, enhancing safety.

Thermo-Ceramics

Thermo-ceramics are known for their heat resistance and durability, offering significant advantages over traditional ceramics and other materials.
Manufacturing thermo-ceramics involves high-temperature processing techniques that enhance their structural properties.
The primary purpose of thermo-ceramics is to withstand harsh thermal environments, making them suitable for various industrial applications.
Common examples of thermo-ceramic products include furnace linings, aerospace components, and cutting tools.
Key characteristics of thermo-ceramics include thermal stability, mechanical strength, and electrical insulating properties.
A common application of thermo-ceramic products is in high-heat industrial processes, where they provide insulation and structural integrity.

Thermochromic Materials

Thermochromic materials can indicate temperature changes by altering color in response to heat, useful for safety and monitoring applications.
The primary characteristic of thermochromic materials is their ability to change color based on surrounding temperatures, offering visual cues for temperature thresholds.

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Description

Test your knowledge about substances that can change color based on temperature fluctuations. Explore the various applications of thermochromic materials, from mood rings to baby bottles and kettles.