Electrospun shape-memory polymer fibers and their applications

Shape-memory polymers (SMPs), as a class of stimuli-responsive materials, can remember a temporary shape and return to the original shape exposed to an external stimulus, including heat, humidity, light, and electrical and magnetic fields. Electrospun shape-memory polymer fibers (ESMPFs), generally categorized as nano/microfibers with different morphologies and structures, are fabricated via electrospinning. ESMPFs, as promising materials, have potential applications in tissue engineering, drug release, smart cloth, etc. because of their large surface areas, porous structures, and shape-changing properties. In this chapter, we mainly present various SMPs and their composites as well as electrospinning used to fabricate ESMPFs. Moreover, different ESMPF structures, including nonwoven, core-shell, oriented, and particle-filled or -reinforced composites, achieved by adjusting processing parameters, are discussed. Furthermore, actuation methods covering traditional and remote-controlling approaches are also highlighted. Finally, potential applications in many different fields are elaborated along with potential challenges and perspectives.