Recent developments in design and functionalization of micro- and nanostructural environmentally-sensitive hydrogels based on N-isopropylacrylamide

Abstract Synthesis of environmentally-sensitive, and therefore smart hydrogels of micro- and nanosize allowed substantial shortening of time of response of these gels to a change in environmental conditions. This made the hydrogels much more attractive and opened new possibilities of their applications. In this paper we present recent developments in ways of construction of micro- and nanogels, their adaptation to particular needs and possibilities of use. The focus was given to individual, spherical particles and very thin layers of gels on solid supports, including electrodes.