1. Instituto de Ciencia de Materiales de Madrid, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Cantoblanco, Madrid 28049, Spain;2. Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Evanston, Illinois 60208, USA;3. Biomedical Engineering Department, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, USA;4. Institute for BioNanotechnology in Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611, USA;5. Division of Vascular Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611, USA
Abstract:
Shape‐memory polymers (SMP) are versatile stimuli‐responsive materials that can switch, upon stimulation, from a temporary to a permanent shape. This advanced functionality makes SMP suitable and promising materials for diverse technological applications, including the fabrication of smart biomedical devices. In this paper, advances in the design of SMP are discussed, with emphasis on materials investigated for medical applications. Future directions necessary to bring SMP closer to their clinical application are also highlighted.
