Smart gel-glass based on the responsive properties of polymer gels

Polymer gels are unique smart materials in the sense that they can respond to many different stimuli. In this paper we report how poly(N-isopropylacry lamide) (abbreviated as PNIPA) and other polymer hydrogels can be used to c onstruct an intelligent gel-glass which can moderate the amount of light an d radiated heat. This environmental sensitive glass, which is a smart hydro gel layer placed between two glass or plastic sheets, becomes opaque when t he temperature exceeds a critical value. It becomes transparent again if it is cooled down. The adaptive properties of gel-glasses make them a promisi ng materials to protect from strong sunlight and heat radiation. Copyright (C) 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.