Light‐Responsive Polymer Membranes

Abstract

Abstract Stimuli‐responsive polymer membranes have gained particular attention for the ability to tune opportunely their physicochemical properties under the application of an external stimulus. Heat, pH value, ionic strength, pressure, humidity, electric and magnetic fields, antigen/antibody interactions, chemical reactions, and light can be used as triggers for specific responses in polymer membranes. In particular, light is a fascinating stimulus, as it is a green energy, which can be modulated in a precise and convenient way. In addition, it allows remote and contactless interactions without changing the original chemical environment. This review reports recent progresses in light‐responsive polymer membranes with particular attention to chemical groups and responsive mechanisms.