Written by a team of experts that has been working together
for several years in the context of a research network involving international
institutions, this book brings several applications related to smart material
systems such as vibration and noise control, structural health monitoring,
energy harvesting and shape memory alloys. Furthermore, this book also provides
basic knowledge on the fundamentals of smart material systems and structures.
Consequently, the present title serves as an important resource for advanced
undergraduate and graduate students. In addition, it serves as a guide for
engineers and scientists working with smart structures and materials both with
an application and basic research perspective.
Smart material systems and structures represent a new
paradigm which is increasing the capabilities of engineering systems.
Adaptability and versatility are some important aspects related to such
systems. In brief, research on smart materials is characterized by synergistically
combining different physical features, such as mechanical, electrical,
chemical, and magnetic. As a result, smart material technologies have a huge
potential to enhance the performance of engineering structures opening
unlimited opportunities to innovation and economic benefits.