Metal Foam with Memory

Researchers at the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) have developed a porous foam made out of an alloy that can return to it's original shape after being deformed by physical of magnetic force. The material known as "magnetic shape-memory foams" consists of a nickel-manganese-gallium alloy. The material can deform up to 10 percent under a magnetic field, it retains the shape after the field has been turned off but returns to its original form when a 90 degree rotated magnetic field is applied. The phenomena is known as magnetic shape-memory. The technology has many applications ranging from biomedical pumps to uses in space and in cars.

Link:
nsf.gov