Shape memory alloys (SMAs) and shape memory polymers (SMPs) could bring new meaning to the term muscle car. Just think: A vehicle that can "sense" an impending crash and subtly alter its shape to absorb the impact, thus protecting its occupants. No more costly repairs to fix crushed bumpers and remove unsightly dents that diminish the value of a car. Self-healing materials that reseal themselves when punctured. Martial arts practitioners could benefit with garb made of SMA and SMP fibers infused with sensors capable of detecting an impending blow-expanding and hardening enough to protect the recipient but retaining enough flex to prevent harm to the attacker. In the military of the future, you could have a bio-engineered army that, at will, is capable of donning an exoskeleton impervious to weapons penetration. The list goes on and on. Far fetched? A little, perhaps, but the possibilities-along with the realized benefits-could be endless. And the applications aren't that far off.
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