| abstract |
Provided herein are methods of making and controlling multiphasic polymeric micro-components capable of shape-shifting. Such a multiphasic micro-component comprises a first phase (that can include a first polymer) and at least one additional phase distinct from said first phase (that can include a second polymer). One or more of the first phase and additional phase comprises a component that is responsive to an external stimulus. Thus, the micro-component exhibits a substantial physical deformation in response to: (i) the presence of the external stimulus or (ii) a change in the external stimulus. Exemplary external stimuli include temperature, pressure, light, pH, ionic strength, hydrophobicity/hydrophilicity, solvent, concentration, a stimulator chemical, sonic energy, electric energy, pressure, magnetic fields, and combinations thereof. |