Establishing adaptive ultrasonics through shape memory materials

Ultrasonics is common in all areas of society, from surgery to car parking sensor systems. Presently, an ultrasonic device is only designed to work efficiently in one way, limited by the materials we can use. However, imagine being able to undertake faster and safer ultrasonic surgery, resulting in lower tissue damage and faster patient recovery, by using a device whose properties we can control. Also imagine a device which can heal through a controlled stimulus. There are materials we can use to transform ultrasonic devices, to create those with higher performance capabilities, including adaptability and self-healing. These features can be realised by using a different type of material, a type we can train to behave in the way we want. These smart materials can be trained to react to changes in temperature, magnetic or electric field, force, pH, and in some cases even light. This project studies the science of how we can engineer a specific type of smart material which can be trained to transform its material properties and shape, to create a transformation in ultrasonics. We can refer to this material as a shape memory material, of which Nitinol is the most popular in use today. Ultrasonics is already ubiquitous, and it is essential we make this next step to improve lives by uncovering and controlling the exciting properties of shape memory materials. This research is a gateway to future intelligent materials - those which can make decisions.