ABSTRACT
Smart polymers have fascinating properties. They show distinct response to slight changes in the surrounding environment brought about by parameters such as pH, temperature, ionic strength, the presence of certain substances, illumination, and electric or magnetic fields. They are also termed as intelligent materials. The reversible changes can often be seen by the naked eye, such as swelling and deswelling of hydrogels, and shape change of shape memory polymers. They find applications in diverse fields (e.g., biotechnology, medicines, artificial organs, actuators, sensors, display devices, etc.).
