All smart materials articles
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Research
Colour-changing textiles for temperature regulation
A new smart fabric switches between reflecting and absorbing states without external energy inputs
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Feature
3D printing adds another dimension
Nina Notman learns how 4D printing is opening the door to unique smart materials whose applications may only be limited by our imaginations
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Research
Curie temperature high makes organic ferroelectric pair stand out
Homochiral organic ferroelectrics get set to upgrade smart and medical devices
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Feature
Smart tattoos are keeping tabs on our health
Nina Notman takes a snapshot of the burgeoning field of health and fitness monitoring tattoos and patches
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Feature
Can smart biomaterials deliver?
James Mitchell Crow explores the next generation of therapeutic biomaterials, which aim to interact dynamically with the body and help to control diabetes and heal wounds
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Research
Metal mirror makes window switch from light to dark in seconds
Converting suspended ions into metal makes faster-switching and longer lasting smart windows
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Research
Smart textile uses sweat as switch to keep wearer cool or warm
Material becomes more porous and can dissipate infrared radiation in response to moisture
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Research
Biocompatible hydrogel focuses on lenses
A bioinspired smart material that swells and contracts could be used to make optical lenses
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Research
Smart sensors for sweaty socks
Stretchable sweat-powered lactate sensors can now be worn on your feet
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Multi-talented polymer more versatile than sum of its parts
Material with mix-and-match functionalities could be used in smart windows
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Camel hair shows shape memory
Natural fibres’ unusual properties could be the basis for new smart materials
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Venus flytrap inspired smart material snaps back
Smart material inspired by carnivorous plant rapidly changes shape in response to temperature and pH changes
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Research
Leather gets a new perfume
Scientists in India have developed a way of infusing leather with lemongrass oil
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Research
Flexible polymer threads set to light up clothing
Multi-colour light-emitting wires can be woven or knitted into fabrics for haute couture or monitoring patients’ vital signs
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Research
Smart skin for prosthetic limbs senses heat and touch
Ultra-thin plastic skin can bend and flex without affecting the skin’s ability to detect stimuli
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Research
Flexible solar cell woven into fabric
Solar cell textiles could one day power wearable electronics
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Feature
Green houses
How can chemistry help reduce the energy consumption of our houses? Fiona Case shares a blueprint for the buildings of tomorrow
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Feature
Clothing gets smart
The clothing of the future may be able to do much more than preserve one’s dignity. Nina Notman reports on what you can expect from the 21st century t-shirt