Chapter 9 - Smart polymers for biomedical applications

Abstract

Smart polymers (SP) are a class that differs from conventional polymers due to rapid transition in their physicochemical state in response to the external environment. The focused attention of SPs is due to their tunable structural and functional potential. The classification of these polymers is based upon the variety of environmental stimuli. This includes temperature, pH, light, enzymatic reaction, pressure, electric/magnetic field, etc. The properties of SPs can be modified during polymer synthesis through alteration in the chain structure. The smart behavior of these polymers allows their exploration in wide applications, including drug delivery, tissue engineering, tissue repair, and various sensors. Although significant advancements have taken place with SP, there are still a few limitations associated with their use that need to be addressed before their successful utilization. This includes fast responsiveness under in vivo conditions, dose quantification in case of drug delivery applications, biocompatibility, and biodegradability. The current chapter consists of a detailed section of temperature, pH, light, enzymatic sensitive polymer. The selected stimuli are based upon their maximum utilization in the research area, ease of polymer designing, and better effectiveness for placement under in vivo conditions. The chapter also includes the vast application and potential outcomes of these SPs.