The use of nano-scale particles is relatively new, and it is still unclear what their long term effect might be on health and the environment
Smart materials
Thermochromic pigments
Photochromic pigments
Shape memory polymer
Shape memory alloy
Hydrogels
Smart materials
Materials that have properties which change reversibly, ie can change easily but can then easily change back, depending on changes in their surroundings
Thermochromic pigments
Change colour at specific temperatures
Photochromic pigments
Change colour when exposed to light
Photochromic pigments
Photochromic lenses for glasses
Shape memory polymer
A polymer that can be bent out of its original shape and then returned to its original shape when heated
Shape memory alloy
Mixtures of metals that return to their original shape when heated
Shape memory alloy
Sporting equipment
Car bodies
Surgical plates for joining bone fractures
Hydrogels
Can absorb up to 1,000 times their own volume in water, and then release the water when the surroundings are dry
Hydrogels
Artificial muscles
Hair gel
Nappies
'Magic' expanding snow
Granules added to soil to help retain water for plants
