Smart materials

Cards (13)

Polymorph 
Polymorph is a polymer that can be shaped or reshaped many times
What happens when polymorph is warmed to 62 degrees
It becomes flexible and easy to mould.
What can it be used for? 
It can be used for bespoke shapes such as ergonomic handles.
What is polymorph used for 
It is used for making prototype mechanical parts and for making mouldings
Quantum tunneling composite (QTC) 
A flexible polymer which contains tiny metal particles embedded into it
What happens when the material is squeezed
Pressure forces the particles together and a current of electrons flows between the neighboring particles
What is the process called
Quantum tunneling
What is the process used in
Microswitches, outdoor items which can be affected by water and touch sensitive pads
Thermochromic Materials 
Materials that change color in response to temperature change.
What can they be incorporated into
They can be incorporated into inks and printed onto plastics in the form of temperature indicators
Photochromic materials 
Materials that change color in response to changes in light levels.
What are the pigments used in 
Textile printing and novelty toys
Overtime, what happens to the pigments
They degrade from the exposure to UV lights.