Smart/Modern Materials Flashcards
What is a Smart Material
A material that changes its properties in response to changes in its environment.
E.g:
- Changes in temperatures
- Changes in light levels
- Changes in pressure (force)
What is a Modern Material
It is a material that is made of/has been manufactured using new methods
What are Thermochromic Pigments
Hot and cold temperatures trigger a change of colour in special thermochromic dyes.
(Some pigments have a permanent change)
What are Photochromic Pigments
UV light stimulates particles in a special pigment. The effect only lasts as long as strong UV light is present
(These pigments are mainly used for novelty goods and colour changing paints.)
What is Shape Memory Alloy (SMA)
- They are metal alloys that can remember their shape when heated
- Made from an alloy of titanium and nickel (nitinol)
- Once the shape of the object is changed then it will return to its original shape when heat or pressure is applied
What is Phosphorescent Material/How does it Work?
Phosphorescence is a process whereby energy from the sun is absorbed by a material and it is released slowly over a long time, in the form of light
The energy/light emitted is at a low intensity and this can last for many hours
Applications of Phosphorescent Materials
Applications include:
- Glow-in-the-dark sticks
- Stickers
- Paint
- Wrist Watch
- Clock Dials
- Fire Exit Signs
Applications of Thermochromic Pigments
Applications include:
- Fever scan strips used on infants
- Room thermometers
- Children’s cutlery and crockery
- Novelty goods and colour changing clothing
Applications of Photochromic Pigments
Applications include:
- Lenses in sunglasses
- Security markers can only be seen under UV light
- Photochromic windows that change from transparent to shaded
- Photochromic glasses that dim under sunlight (UV light)
What are Conductive Fabrics
Conductive Fabrics can conduct electricity. They can be made with metal strands woven into the construction of the textile.
What are Fire Resistant Fabrics
Fire resistant fabrics are textiles that are more resistant to fire than others, as they’ve undergone chemical treatment of flame-retardant or manufactured fireproof fibres.
What are Micro fibres incorporating micro encapsulation
Micro encapsulation is a process where tiny particles or droplets are surrounded by a coating/other micro fibres to give small capsules, with useful properties.
What do Piezoelectric Materials do
- They generate a small electric charge when sensors are compressed
- Can also generate movement when an electric charge is applied (actuator)
Applications of Piezoelectric Materials
Applications:
- Generating energy
- Sensors/Burglar Alarms
- Keyless Car Entry
- Seat Belt Sensors
- Car Airbags
What is Electroluminescent Wire
Electroluminescent wire (EL wire) is a thin copper wire coated in phosphor which glows brightly when a current is applied to it.
