Introduction to Elastomers
Elastomers are a type of material that is both elastic and a polymer. This means they have the ability to stretch and then return to their original shape. A common example of an elastomer is rubber. Natural elastomers, like rubber, can melt when heated and become brittle when cooled. To make them more effective, specific treatments are necessary. Since the early 20th century, synthetic elastomers have been developed to overcome the limitations of natural elastomers. There are over twenty different types of elastomers, including latex, polyurethane, silicone, and neoprene. These materials have a wide range of applications, including tires, cable insulation, tubes, gloves, hoses, balloons, windshield wipers, rubber bands, conveyor belts, and prosthetics.
What are Elastomers?
Elastomers are characterized by their ability to stretch and then return to their original shape. This makes them extremely useful in a variety of applications. They can be found in everyday objects, such as tires and gloves, as well as in more specialized applications, such as prosthetics and conveyor belts. In addition to their practical uses, elastomers are also being used in more revolutionary applications, such as the development of new materials and technologies.
The Ultra-Strong Material Based on Spider Web Elastomers
Spider webs are known for their strength and elasticity. The Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) has developed an ultra-strong material based on the molecular structure of spider webs. This material combines the qualities of stiffness and toughness, making it ideal for a variety of applications. The material is made up of a hard and softer part, with the hydrogen-bonded structure being optimal for dissipating energy. The softer part is made of a silicon-based polymer known as PDMS. This material has the potential to be self-repairing and could be used in smart clothing due to its ability to resist torsion.
Graphene Spider Webs
Graphene is a highly versatile material that is being used in a variety of applications. Researchers at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology have created a new type of highly flexible and sensitive sensor using graphene and the silk structures of spider webs. The sensor is made up of PDMS yarns with a graphene coating and is piezo-resistant, meaning it is sensitive to variations in the electric field. This makes it ideal for use in epidermal sensors and other devices that come into contact with human skin.
An Elastomer-Based Artificial Muscle
Researchers at the University of California have developed a material that behaves like human muscles, contracting with high responsiveness to stimuli. This material is made up of liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) and is created using an electrospinning process. The resulting fibers have high tensile strength and are highly responsive to heat or near-infrared light. This material has the potential to be used in human muscle reconstructive surgery or the development of robotic muscle systems.
Elastomers that Behave like Batman’s Cape
A new material developed at Caltech labs in the US has the ability to change from a flexible to a rigid state, much like Batman’s cape. The material is made up of an octahedron-shaped polymer mesh obtained through 3D printing and is coated with a layer of liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs). When an electric current is applied to the LCEs, heat is generated, causing the material to shrink and take on a preset shape. This material has the potential to be used in the manufacture of exoskeletons in biomedicine or temporary shelters in the event of a disaster.
Conclusion
Elastomers are a versatile and highly useful type of material that are being used in a wide range of applications. From the development of ultra-strong materials based on spider web elastomers to the creation of artificial muscles and materials that behave like Batman’s cape, the potential uses of elastomers are vast and exciting. As research continues to advance, it is likely that we will see even more innovative applications of elastomers in the future. Whether it’s in the development of new technologies, the creation of advanced materials, or the improvement of everyday objects, elastomers are sure to play a major role in shaping the world of tomorrow.
