SMPs multifunctional

Thermal programming of SMPs using a direct heating source e.g., oven or heating chamber), although widely used in research laboratories, is impractical for many potential applications. To address these issues, various types of fillers have been added to the SMP matrix to form SMP composites with enhanced multifunctional properties.Herein we focus on major developments... 

The latest embodiment of an SMP clot retrieval system demonstrates a hybrid shape-memory material system. The design of SMP biomedical devices should not be limited to purely polymer-based devices but rather can be combined with other smart or active materials. Novel multifunctional SMP-hybrid systems could lead to multiple unique and novel platform technologies for future development. 

In the fourth chapter, biomedical applications of shape-memory polymers are presented. Vascular, orthopaedic, and neuronal applications are elaborated to illustrate how SMP can improve the standard of treatment. Additionally, the practical challenges of the development of SMP for biomedical devices are described. The fifth chapter deals with multifunctional SMP. The combination of the shape-memory effect with hydrolytic degradability and the capability to release a drug in a controlled way are described as an example of multifunctionality. Drug loading and release, as well as the effects of the drugs on the shape-memory properties are discussed and potential applications in minimally-invasive surgery are outlined. 

Another interesting example for the use of real-time temperature sensors based on excimer-forming is a multifunctional shape-memory polymer (SMP) with built-in temperature sensing capabilities (Figure 5.13) [66]. This material was prepared by incorporating a fluorescent, chromogenic cyano-OPV dye into a... 

---