Smart Materials

Question 1

What is shape memory alloy?

Answer 1

Metal which once deformed will return to its original shape when heated above its transition temperature

Question 2

Uses of shape memory alloys

Answer 2

trigger sprinklers in fire alarm systems

controllers for hot water valves in shower/coffee machine

spectale frames

Question 3

Definition of viscoelastic material

Answer 3

Material which changes visocity depending upon the rate at which stress is applied

Question 4

Definition of piezoelectric material

Answer 4

Material which changes shape fractionally when voltage is applied to it

Question 5

Use of piezoelectric material

Answer 5

• Contact sensors for alarm systems
• microphones and loudspeakers

Question 6

Uses of thermochromic

Answer 6

• Plastic strips and colour changes to indicate temperature

Question 7

Waht si thermochromic

Answer 7

Changes colour with temperature

Question 8

Uses of photochromic

Answer 8

Changes colour with changes in the level of light