Stimuli‐Responsive Membranes

Abstract

Recent advances in design and preparation of stimuli‐responsive membranes (SRMs), and their uses in areas such as molecular filtration, engineering separation, controlled capture/release, etc. are presented and critically assessed in this article. The underlying principles for actualization and response of various types of SRMs are first reviewed, with respect to their constituent stimuli‐responsive polymers or chemical functionality. Then, the various membrane preparation methods and processes that facilitate the incorporation of the stimuli‐responsive polymers, molecules, or additives to alter the membrane properties (e.g., permeability and selectivity) are discussed, in response to either the change in environmental conditions (e.g., solution pH and temperature) or the presence of an externally applied field (e.g., electric field, magnetic field). Design parameters that play important roles in shaping the manner and extent at which the trigger response from SRMs is actualized are also discussed and elucidated. Potential engineering applications that integrate such novel membranes or associated systems are also presented to illustrate their vast potential in tackling various health and sustainability issues.