Submit your Abstracts here: http://bit.ly/SmartMaterialsAbstract

Types of Smart Materials (Contd)

Shape Memory Polymers:

Shape Memory Polymers (SMP) are similar to Shape Memory Alloys except for the obvious fact they are made from a polymer matrix. They possess much greater recoverable strains than the alloys, but typically under lower forces. Morphing structures has been the area of greatest use to date for SMP’s.

Hydrogels:

Hydrogels can be tailored to absorb and hold water, or other liquids, under certain environmental conditions. Hydrogels have been around for a long time, specifically in disposable diapers. A key feature, however, is the gels can be tailored chemically to respond to different stimuli. Midé has also patented a method to embed the gels into a foam which enables systems to be built with the gels, such as the Hydrogel Activated Bulkhead Shaft Seals.

Electroactive Polymers:

There are many forms of electroactive polymers and many are still being refined. They have great potential as the flexibility of how they can be used provide advantages over some of the metals and ceramics mentioned above. Most typically applications include energy harvesting and sensing (see Stretchsense development kit) however some researchers are looking at high voltage, low current actuators.

Bi-Component Fibers:

Adaptive thermal insulation can enable smart clothing that can change its thermal properties based on the environment. Midé has developed bi-component fibre technology where two different materials are co-extruded together to enable shape change depending on ambient temperature.