Stone, wood, bone and fur were the first basic materials which mankind used – to make weapons and tools. Entire Ages were named after such materials which were discovered, such as Bronze or Iron. Basic materials still play a key role in almost all areas of technology today.

Steel has become a high-tech material. For instance, so-called HDS (high strength and ductility) steel can make “intelligent crumple zones” possible.

Furthermore, synthetic materials such as acrylic, polyethylene, nylon, polystyrene – are widely used and are employed in almost all areas of life. Imagine doing without Teflon, celluloid or plastic? As in all areas of technology, scientists have been pushing the limits.  They have been researching materials, which – equipped with sensors and controls – “behave” in a particular way. These so called “smart materials” have already achieved huge success.  It means we could soon have materials available which repair themselves or adapt to certain environmental conditions autonomously.