Introduction to Smart Materials and Structures

This chapter first introduces the basic definitions and concepts related to smart materials and structures. Then, the underlying physical principles and main operational features of some of the smart materials most widely used in engineering applications are described. The potential of the technology of smart materials and structures for innovative solutions of practical problems is put in evidence by the description of some relevant research studies and engineering applications, with the support of relevant bibliographic references. The concepts introduced in this chapter are further developed in the other chapters of the book.