Learning Intention Develop an understanding of ‘smart’ and ‘modern’ materials, including: thermochromic materials; photochromic materials; polymorph; shape memory alloys; shape memory polymers

Smart materials are reactive materials. Their properties change with exposure to stimuli, such as electric and magnetic fields, stress, moisture and temperature.

Shape Memory Polymer

Shape memory polymers (SMPs) are polymers have the reactive capability to change shape when heated.

SMP - Polymorph Used for - manufacturing awkward shapes such as ergonomic handles, joining components together, making moulds for vacuum forming

Shape Memory Alloys

There are different types of SMA, but the best (and most expensive) is nickel-titanium, known as Nitinol. Nitinol changes length when heated. Can you think of an application for this Smart Material?

Nitinol Braces

Thermochromic Materials

Thermochromic pigments react to changes in temperature

Photochromic Materials

Photochromic pigments react to changes in light levels (UV light)

Piezoelectric Materials

When a piezoelectric material is deformed, it gives off a small but measurable electrical discharge. Alternately, when an electrical current is passed through a piezoelectric material it experiences a significant increase in size (up to a 4% change in volume).

Nanotechnology So far we’ve looked at altering a material’s property by combining different materials together Nanotechnology involves altering a material’s property by changing the individual atoms

Nanomaterials Offer great improvements in material properties – lighter, stiffer and stronger NanoXcel – ultra lightweight and very strong. Reduces weight of hull by 25%. High gloss finish reduces surface tension on water

Nanomaterials – more common than you think Nanomaterial: Various surface-bound nanoparticles Why is it used?: Stain-repellant Nanomaterial: Titanium Dioxide Why is it used?: Increase hardness and strength of dried glue

Examiner’s Tip You must know what a smart material is You must be able to give at least two examples You need to understand how nanotechnology improves materials Examiner’s Tip You must know what a smart material is You must be able to give at least two examples You need to understand how nanotechnology improves materials

Check your understanding… A medical company has designed a cast that contracts when heat is applied. Suggest the smart material they should use.

Check your understanding.. Babies are very sensitive to heat and it’s important that their bath water is not too hot. A company specialising in baby products need a material that will somehow show when bath water is at the correct temperature. Suggest the smart material they should use.

Check your understanding.. A company makes home security products. They have designed a new type of doormat that causes a buzzer to sound when someone steps on it. Suggest the smart material they should use.

Check your understanding.. A company makes novelty makeup products. They want to design a new type of nail varnish that changes colour under UV lights at discos. Suggest the smart material they should use.

Task Hydrochromic pigment Phosphorescent pigments Potatopak Paperfoam Find out about the following smart materials. You research should explain what they are and how they have been used in products Finally, you need to find examples of all the Smart & Modern materials covered in this lesson. Find examples of products and glue them into your notebook with notes explaining how they work