The technological revolution which is smart biopolymers illuminates the
propensity of certain multifunctional materials - shape biopolymers - to change form
and move on exposure to a stimulus, and in so doing, perform functions which furnish
them with a range of capabilities. Thus, the mechanized uniqueness of these polymers is
embodied not only in their macroscopic structural changes, but in their reversible shape
change. There is a binary classification of shape biopolymers: shape-memory and
shape-changing biopolymers. The focus of this chapter is on shape-memory
biopolymers (SMBPs), which possess dual-shape competence. In terms of biomedical
applications, SMBPs could have diverse applications in stimuli-sensitive drug delivery
systems, intelligent medical and surgical devices, tissue engineering, or implants for
minimally invasive surgery. In this chapter, we firstly elaborate on the fundamental
molecular mechanisms culminating in the macroscopic dynamics of shape-memory
systems bringing about their pertinent action and the recovery of their original shape.
Further, we highlight the diverse stimuli instigating the polymeric response such as
thermal stimuli, light, magnetism, mechanical stress or moisture. In addition, we discuss
the biopolymers exhibiting potential shape-memory capabilities, as well as various
modifications, functionalizations and reinforcements to these to customize their
biomedical applications. An expert summation of the application of these biopolymers
in the design of smart delivery systems, implants and devices, as divulged through
recent investigations, is presented. The chapter culminates in current and future trends
in the design and application of SMBPs and their overall potential benefits.
Keywords: Biopolymers, external stimulus activation, intelligent drug delivery
systems, medical devices, shape-memory polymers, stimuli-responsive systems.
