11 - Smart materials - Characteristics

Question 1

Shape Memory Alloy - changes in temperature

Answer 1

(SMA) e.g Nitanol

If SMA is heated to a certain temperature (transition temperature) it will return to its original shape

Dental braces made from Nitanol wire can be designed to change at body temperature. When the braces are placed in the mouth, the wire remains at a constant tension

Question 1

What is a smart material?

Answer 1

Material whos physical properties change in response to an input or change in the environment, such as electricity, pressure, temperature or light.