Smart polymers are materials composed of polymers that respond in a dramatic way to very slight changes in their environment.

Scientists studying natural polymers have learned how they behave in biological systems, and are now using that information to develop similar man-made polymeric substances with specific properties. These synthetic polymers are potentially very useful for a variety of applications including some related to biotechnology and biomedicine. Smart polymers are becoming increasingly more prevalent as scientists learn about the chemistry and triggers that induce conformational changes in polymer structures and devise ways to take advantage of, and control them. New polymeric materials are being chemically formulated that sense specific environmental changes in biological systems, and adjust in a predictable manner, making them useful tools for drug delivery or other metabolic control mechanisms. In this relatively new area of biotechnology, the potential environmental uses for smart polymers appear to be limitless. biomedical applications and

Shape memory Polymers Shape memory polymers (SMPs) are smart materials that, as a result of an external stimulus such as temperature, can change from a temporary deformed shape back to an original shape. SMPs are finding an increasing use in such areas as clothing where they respond dynamically to changes in heat and moisture levels, ensuring greater comfort for the wearer. Shape memory polymers and textiles provide an authoritative and comprehensive review of these important new materials and their applications. Dentistry Smart polymers can also be used in dental braces. They can be moulded into the shape of the mouth, and then hardened by exposure to a special ultra violet lamp. Wound dressing Water based polymers can be applied to a wound and they react to the state of the wound, sometimes hydrating it or drawing water from it.