What is a Susceptor? Definition, Types, and Applications

A susceptor is a material or component that is designed to absorb or react with a specific substance, such as heat, light, or chemicals. The term "susceptor" is often used in the context of materials science and engineering, where it refers to a material that is capable of undergoing a change in properties or structure in response to an external stimulus.

Examples of susceptors include:

1. Thermal susceptors: These are materials that change their properties in response to changes in temperature. Examples include thermochromic materials, which change color as they heat up or cool down, and shape memory alloys, which change shape in response to temperature changes.
2. Photonic susceptors: These are materials that change their properties in response to light. Examples include photovoltaic materials, which convert light into electricity, and photochromic materials, which change color in response to light exposure.
3. Chemical susceptors: These are materials that change their properties in response to chemical stimuli. Examples include sensors that detect specific chemicals or changes in pH levels.
4. Biological susceptors: These are materials that interact with biological systems, such as cells, tissues, or organs. Examples include biocompatible materials used in medical implants, and biosensors that detect specific biomolecules or physiological responses.

Overall, the term "susceptor" refers to any material or component that is capable of undergoing a change in properties or structure in response to an external stimulus, and it has a wide range of applications in fields such as materials science, engineering, and biotechnology.