Materials that change color

Abstract

This chapter introduces materials that change color with scientific definitions and explanations of different categories such as photochromic, thermochromic, and electrochromic materials. The behaviors in relation to the stimuli to which they react is presented and a general picture of the potential of these materials are given with some examples/applications of the most commonly used types. This information will help to understand how materials that change color work, how they are applied to products and systems, and how their multi-faceted nature was put to use until today. © The Author(s) 2014.