Which smart material can conduct electricity and uses microencapsulation?

• A. Smart fibres
• B. Thermochromic ink
• C. QTC
• D. Nitinol

Answer: (A)

Smart fibres combine textiles with electronics, and microencapsulation is a technique used to embed functional components inside tiny capsules within the fibre. This allows conductive materials to be dispersed in the fibre while being protected and controlled, so the fibre can carry electrical current without losing flexibility or durability. That combination—conductivity plus integration via microencapsulation—fits the concept of smart fibres best.

Thermochromic ink changes colour with temperature but does not conduct electricity. QTC can conduct and respond to pressure, but it’s not typically described as being integrated through microencapsulation in fibres. Nitinol is a shape memory alloy and doesn’t rely on microencapsulation for its function.