smart materials

SMART MATERIALS

smart materials react and change due to external stimuli

shape memory alloys can be programmed to return to a shape when affected by temperature or pressure. a commonly used SMA is nitinol, made from nickel and titanium. they are set with a transformation and activation temperature. SMAs are suitable for braces, glasses frames and stents for medical use

thermochromic pigment is a material that changes colour with temperature, it can be used for safety and detection of dangerous temperatures. it is suitable for thermometers, kettles and mugs as decoration and signifiers

phosphorescent pigment glows in the dark after exposure to light, the glow fades quickly but it can last long if exposed for a long time, it is suitable for fire exit signs, clock faces and toys

photochromic pigment is a reversible change in colour affected by light levels. it is often used in glasses and windows, but it can be dangerous as the colour change isn’t instant when the light level changes

electroluminescent wire is a copper wire that is coated with phosphor, this makes it glow when a current is passed through it, it is used for bicycles, lighting and costumes

piezoelectric wire is a wire that creates and electric circuit when affected by pressure, it can be used in lighters or for fire alarms. it is also used in digital watches and sonar equipment