Abstract
Intelligent materials, also known as smart materials, are capable of reacting to various external stimuli or environmental changes by rearranging their structure at a molecular level and adapting functionality accordingly. The initial concept of the intelligence of a material originated from the natural biological system, following the sensing–reacting–learning mechanism. The dynamic and adaptive nature, along with the immediate responsiveness, of the polymer- and fiber-based smart materials have increased their global demand in both academia and industry. In this manuscript, the most recent progress in smart materials with various features is reviewed with a focus on their applications in diverse fields. Moreover, their performance and working mechanisms, based on different physical, chemical and biological stimuli, such as temperature, electric and magnetic field, deformation, pH and enzymes, are summarized. Finally, the study is concluded by highlighting the existing challenges and future opportunities in the field of intelligent materials.
Highlights
The unique properties of polymers have long been gaining attention and investigation from both academia and industry
To clarify the term “intelligent” with more accurate standards, we look back at the origin of it, which is borrowed from science-fiction literature as the opposite of those that are obtuse to environmental changes, that have no such ability to make choices and that cannot respond or adapt to comprehend complex situations or learn from the past
Such ability to be aware of environmental progress and publications in intelligent polymers, the increasing amount of research works in several directions
Summary
The unique properties of polymers have long been gaining attention and investigation from both academia and industry. The prototype of an intelligent polymer could be defined as a material that comprehends experiences, is self-aware and responds purposefully Such ability to be aware of environmental progress and publications in intelligent polymers, the increasing amount of research works in several directions. Piezoelectric, semiconducting and thermoelectric materials are seen in many state-of-the-art applications [31,32,33,34] and intelligent devices based on their unique characteristics These materials still hold a certain level of limitations regarding the degree of intelligence, as most of them lack certain functionalities such as self-control, decision-making, self-learning or ease of recycling, which are critical to the demanding sophisticated modern way of life [25]. Polymers 2021, 13, 1427 for multiple specialized applications, whilst possess memorizing, learning and reacting capabilities from a molecule level
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
