A Tri-Stimuli-Responsive Shape-Memory Material Using Host-Guest Interactions as Molecular Switches

A thermo-, photo-and chemoresponsive shape-memory material is successfully prepared by introducing alpha-cyclodextrin (alpha CD) and azobenzene (Azo) into a poly(acrylate acid)/alginate (PAA/Alg) network. The tri-stimuli-responsive formation/dissociation of alpha CD-Azo acts as molecular switches freezing or increasing the molecular mobility. The resulting film herein can be processed into temporary shapes as needed and recovers its initial shape upon the application of light irradiation, heating, or chemical agent independently. Furthermore, the agar diffusion test suggests that the alpha-CD-Alg/Azo-PAA has good biocompatibility for L929 fibroblast-like cells.