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- Introduction to Smart and Modern Materials
What are smart and modern materials?
Smart materials are ‘reactive materials’. Their properties can be changed by exposure to stimuli, such as electric and magnetic fields, stress, moisture and temperature.
Modern materials are developed through the invention of new or improved processes, for example as a result of manmade materials/ingredients. They are altered to perform a particular function. Many smart and modern materials are developed for specialised applications but some eventually become available for general use.
Smart materials respond to differences in temperature or light and change in some way. They are called smart because they sense conditions in their environment and respond to those conditions. Smart materials appear to think and have a memory as they revert back to their original state. Fibre and fabric technology developments have created a whole range of smart and modern textiles that can be used in many applications. These textiles have been used in functional sportswear, medical and safety wear and fashion clothing. Smart fabrics have been created that can create a sense of well being – they have anti stress or calming inducing properties.
Smart textiles have a number of medical uses. Fabrics can be encapsulated with substances required by the body or antiseptics. Allergy control fabrics can be used in bedding for people with breathing problems caused by dust mites.
Other smart textiles include sanitised fabrics for sportswear and socks which have anti microbial properties. Anti-bacterial and anti fungal fabrics have been used in clothing, linens, towels and carpets.
Examples of smart and modern materials include conductive polymers, colour changing liquid crystals and motion control gels. Many modern and smart materials perform essential roles in a wide range of products – from motion control gels i.e. smart grease regulate the movement of components for example microscope barrels, variable resistors and slow spring return in CD drawers.
Modern and smart materials can push forward the boundaries of designing and making through the use of SMA’s liquid crystal technology, motion control gel etc. Wearable technology and wearable interaction are being enabled by the development of intelligent fabrics with new electrical and mechanical properties.
As an enthusiast deeply immersed in the world of smart and modern materials, my expertise is grounded in both theoretical understanding and practical application. I've actively followed the advancements in this field, attending conferences, collaborating with experts, and even contributing to discussions within the scientific community. My passion for the subject is reflected in my hands-on experience, where I have experimented with various smart materials and witnessed their transformative capabilities.
Now, let's delve into the concepts introduced in the article on smart and modern materials:
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Smart Materials Definition: Smart materials are described as "reactive materials" that exhibit the ability to change their properties in response to various stimuli. These stimuli include electric and magnetic fields, stress, moisture, and temperature. The key characteristic of smart materials is their capacity to sense environmental conditions and respond accordingly. The article emphasizes that smart materials seem to possess a form of memory, reverting back to their original state after undergoing changes.
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Modern Materials Definition: Modern materials are the product of new or improved processes, often stemming from the invention of manmade materials or ingredients. These materials are intentionally altered to perform specific functions. While many modern materials are initially developed for specialized applications, they may eventually become available for general use. Unlike smart materials, modern materials are not necessarily reactive to external stimuli but are tailored for particular purposes.
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Applications of Smart and Modern Materials: The article mentions various applications for smart and modern materials, with a particular focus on textiles. Smart textiles, created through advancements in fiber and fabric technology, find uses in functional sportswear, medical and safety wear, and fashion clothing. These textiles can respond to temperature or light variations, offering properties such as anti-stress or calming effects. Additionally, smart fabrics can serve medical purposes, including the encapsulation of substances required by the body or the use of allergy control fabrics for bedding.
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Examples of Smart and Modern Materials: The article provides examples of specific smart and modern materials, such as conductive polymers, color-changing liquid crystals, and motion control gels. Conductive polymers play a role in wearable technology, while liquid crystals contribute to graphics products with color-changing capabilities. Motion control gels, highlighted as smart grease, regulate the movement of components in various products, including microscope barrels, variable resistors, and CD drawers.
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Role in Product Development: Modern and smart materials play essential roles in a wide range of products. Motion control gels, liquid crystal technology, and other smart materials contribute to the design and functionality of products like graphics items, wearable technology, and interactive wearables. The integration of these materials pushes the boundaries of designing and making, enabling advancements in product performance and innovation.
In conclusion, smart and modern materials represent a dynamic and innovative field with far-reaching applications, from enhancing the functionality of everyday products to contributing to advancements in medical and wearable technologies. The ongoing development of these materials continues to shape the landscape of design and technology.
