Smart Materials

Question 1

Shape memory alloys

Answer 1

Can be plastically deformed and will return to original shape when heated
Pros - lengthen the life of a product, reduced overall size
Cons - expensive, continuous use can cause metal fatigue

Question 2

Temperature responsive polymers

Answer 2

Can change physical properties eg. Shape with a change in temp
Pros - use in biomedical applications
Cons - still be researched so wider applications may take time

Question 3

Piezoelectric materials

Answer 3

Can change physical properties with a change in temp such as when compressed produces a current or vice versa
Pros - sustainable, low maintenance, compact size
Cons - wear out, has a temp and voltage limit

Question 4

Nano materials

Answer 4

Made of tiny components, less than 100 nanometres wide. Particles tubes or films
Pros - large relative surface area can improve properties, can combine properties
Cons - unusual chemical and physical properties could potentially risk the environment, expensive

Question 5

Photochromic glass

Answer 5

Darkens when exposed to light and reverses in the dark, tiny silver particles react with the UV
Pros - adapts easily to changing conditions, can be used again
Cons - may be slow to react, cannot control the reaction

Question 6

Reactive glass

Answer 6

Uses electrochromic tech to change from transparent to opaque by applying voltage
Pros - retains heat so reduces energy bills, instant privacy without blocking of light
Cons - expensive, requires electricity source

Question 7

Conductive inks

Answer 7

Contain pigments that allow currents to flow through it, used in a pen
Pros - easy to use, lighter than circuit boards, can be folded
Cons - silver is expensive, difficult to get circuits right and can’t be erased