Polyelectrolyte intelligent gels. Design and applications

In this chapter polyelectrolyte intelligent gels are examined along three broad lines. The effects of different physical, chemical and biological stimuli on gels response are analysed and mechanisms of response are outlined. The broad range of biomedical applications of smart gels is reviewed and limits and perspectives of the proposed techniques and devices are crititically discussed. Finally, continuous modelling of gel electromechanochemistry is described, providing quantitative tools to assess swelling equilibrium conditions and coupled kinetics.