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Intelligent Nanofiber Composites: Dynamic Communication between Materials and Their Environment
Author(s) -
Alexander Symone L. M.,
Matolyak Lindsay E.,
Korley LaShanda T. J.
Publication year - 2017
Publication title -
macromolecular materials and engineering
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.913
H-Index - 96
eISSN - 1439-2054
pISSN - 1438-7492
DOI - 10.1002/mame.201700133
Subject(s) - materials science , composite material , nanofiber , natural fiber , actuator , composite number , fiber , smart material , matrix (chemical analysis) , computer science , artificial intelligence
Intelligence of living and nonliving systems is often characterized by the ability to communicate through signal and response. In the polymer science community, this intelligence is realized through the reaction of a material construct to environmental triggers. These smart materials are modeled after natural materials, which utilize matrix–fiber architectures to detect stimuli, release small molecules, or alter their macroscopic morphology in response to stimuli. As such, researchers have designed matrix–fiber composites, which function as release vehicles, sensors or switches, and actuators. Through the examination of the architecture and environmental triggering of these natural muses, the fundamental design parameters necessary for functional response in matrix–fiber composites and the ability to utilize these composites in targeted applications are highlighted. Opportunities for innovation in composite design are also discussed.