%0 Journal Article
%T Stimuli Responsive Ionogels for Sensing ApplicationsˇŞAn Overview
%A Andrew Kavanagh
%A Robert Byrne
%A Dermot Diamond
%A Kevin J. Fraser
%J Membranes
%D 2012
%I MDPI AG
%R 10.3390/membranes2010016
%X This overview aims to summarize the existing potential of ˇ° Ionogelsˇ± as a platform to develop stimuli responsive materials. Ionogels are a class of materials that contain an Ionic Liquid (IL) confined within a polymer matrix. Recently defined as ˇ°a solid interconnected network spreading throughout a liquid phaseˇ±, the ionogel therefore combines the properties of both its solid and liquid components. ILs are low melting salts that exist as liquids composed entirely of cations and anions at or around 100 ˇăC. Important physical properties of these liquids such as viscosity, density, melting point and conductivity can be altered to suit a purpose by choice of the cation/anion. Here we provide an overview to highlight the literature thus far, detailing the encapsulation of IL and responsive materials within these polymeric structures. Exciting applications in the areas of optical and electrochemical sensing, solid state electrolytes and actuating materials shall be discussed.
%K stimuli responsive polymers
%K ionogels
%K ionic liquids
%K hybrid materials
%K molecular photoswitches
%K solid state electrolytes
%U http://www.mdpi.com/2077-0375/2/1/16