Active polymers for biomedical microdevices and microfluidic systems

Active composite polymers (CPs) offer increased opportunities for development of new actuators, sensors, and packaging structures for microfluidics and biomedicine. Composite polymer (CP) materials are based on polymers commonly employed for fluidic and biomedical microdevices/systems, but are rendered active (conductive, magnetic) through the introduction of nano-or micro-particles. CPs are presented as new materials for microfluidic and biomedical microdevices. Advantages and disadvantages of CPs for active biomedical and microfluidic components are discussed. Integration of multiple CP-based devices, wearability/ biocompatibility of devices, and testing protocols are examined as future requirements for successful systems employing active CPs.