Smart Polymeric and Functional Materials: Design, Properties and Emerging Applications
Aims and Scope
Smart polymeric and functional materials have emerged as an important research area at the interface of polymer chemistry, nanotechnology, materials science, and biomedical engineering. Their ability to respond to external stimuli, undergo controlled structural or functional changes, and provide tailored physicochemical properties has opened new opportunities for advanced applications in healthcare, environmental protection, energy, and emerging technologies. Recent developments in polymer functionalization, nanocomposites, hydrogels, magnetic materials, biopolymers, and additive manufacturing have further expanded these materials' potential. This Special Issue aims to provide a multidisciplinary platform for presenting recent advances in the design, synthesis, modification, characterization, and application of smart polymeric and functional materials. We place particular emphasis on innovative approaches to developing stimuli-responsive polymers, smart hydrogels, polymeric nanocomposites, magnetic and multifunctional materials, and bio-based polymeric systems.
Suggested themes include smart and stimuli-responsive polymers, functional polymeric nanocomposites, smart hydrogels, magnetic polymeric materials, biopolymers and sustainable materials, nanotechnology-enabled polymer systems, drug delivery, tissue engineering and 3D/4D bioprinting, sensing and functional surfaces, and polymer-based materials for environmental remediation and water treatment. Contributions addressing emerging concepts, advanced characterization methods, and innovative applications are especially encouraged.