Modern Materials

Graphene

Graphene:: a single layer of carbon atoms

Properties of graphene:: transparent, strong, light, excellent conductor

Uses of graphene:: protective equipment/clothing, mixed with paint to prevent corrosion, ideal for solar cells

Metal foams

Metal foams:: metals injected with air whilst liquid

Properties of metal foams:: lightweight, strong under compression, low thermal conductivity

Uses of metal foams:: prosthetics, soundproofing, crash protection in vehicles

Titanium

Titanium:: metal that has historically been hard to process

Properties of titanium:: high strength to weight ratio, resistant to corrosion, tolerant of high temperature

Uses of titanium:: prosthetics, ideal for use in aviation and spacecraft, useful in alloys

Other modern materials

Coated metals: metals are improved by adding a layer of another metal

Liquid crystal displays: flat panel screens that use liquid crystals and light to create an image

Nanomaterials: materials containing particles less that 100 nanometres, which have a higher surface area to volume ratio.

Smart Materials

Smart materials:: materials which react tot external stimuli.

Shape memory alloys

Shape memory alloys:: metal alloys which can return to their original shape after being deformed.

Returning shape can be done through heating or applying an electrical current.

Thermochromic pigments

Thermochromic pigments:: materials which change colour in response to temperature.

Changing colour can be done using liquid crystals.

Photochromic pigments

Photochromic pigment:: materials which change colour in response to light levels.

Photochromic pigment is often used in glasses.

Composite Materials

Composite materials:: materials made from two or more materials, often ones with contrasting properties. Combining these can lead to new and improved materials.

Glass reinforced plastic

Glass reinforced plastic:: combines glass and plastic to make a strong and lightweight material used in boats and cars.

Carbon reinforced plastic

Carbon reinforced plastic:: combines carbon fibres and plastic to make a material stronger and lighter than GRP, but more expensive and brittle.

Technical Textiles

Textiles manufactured for functionality over aesthetics.

Kevlar

Kevlar:: a strong synthetic textile with a high strength to weight ratio, often used in armour.

Conductive textiles

Conductive textiles:: textiles with metal fibres spun into them to make them conduct electricity

Fire-resistant fabrics

Fire-resistant textiles:: textiles that have flame resistance built into their chemical structures, like Nomex.

Microfibres

Microfibres:: textiles made of extremely fine synthetic fibres, which are breathable and durable.

Microencapsulation means microfibres can incorporate scents, oils, of insecticides.

Microfibres are often used in sportswear.