A review of smart polymeric materials: Recent developments and prospects for medicine applications

Abstract

To adapt to the changes in nature, living systems adjust their structure and function according to the environmental conditions. Scientists are inspired by nature and try to create materials that can change their behavior depending on the situation, just like living organisms do to survive. The idea of intelligent materials comes from natural biological systems, which follow a mechanism of sensing, reacting, and learning. Smart polymers, also known as stimuli-responsive, are a group of materials that possess the ability to respond to specific stimuli by undergoing reversible changes in their properties. Smart polymers have amazing features that come from their flexibility and responsiveness. They can change their molecular structure and function to suit different external stimuli or environmental changes. These materials are like living systems that adapt to their surroundings. Smart polymers have unique and highly desirable properties that make them attractive for a wide range of applications in medicine. This article reviews provides a comprehensive review of the recent advances in smart functional polymers, exploring their responses to various stimuli, be it physical, chemical, or biological. It also discusses some of the most advanced medical applications of these polymers, showcasing their transformative potential as materials that dynamically adjust to their environment.

Keywords

• Stimuli-responsive polymer
• Smart polymers
• Physical stimuli
• Chemically stimuli
• Biologically stimuli