Stimuli-Responsive Biopolymers: An Inspiration for Synthetic Smart Materials and Their Applications in Self-Controlled Catalysis

摘要

A large number of species in nature demonstrate switchable responsiveness to external stimuli, which is essential for their adaptation to the changing environment. Inspired by the responsive properties in nature, researchers have made significant progress in the field of synthetic stimuli-responsive materials over the years, particularly in the field of smart polymer catalysts which are able to control the catalytic processes. Here, we review these bio-inspired polymer materials and their applications in self-controlled catalytic processes. Other issues involved in developing these bio-inspired polymer materials including the origin, mechanisms, switchable behaviors and merits are also discussed.