Artificial Muscles, Biosensors and Drug Delivery Systems Based on Conducting Polymers: A Review

Polypyrrole (PPy) and polyaniline (PANI) are of the most promising materials for multifunctionalized applications . The application of conducting polymers for the direct conversion of electrical energy to mechanical energy in electro-mechanical actuators is analyzed using theoretical and experimental results. Electrically conducting organic polymers and a novel class of synthetic metals that combine the chemical and mechanical properties of polymers with the electronic properties of metals and semiconductors. These polymers become conductive upon partial oxidation or reduction, a process commonly referred to as doping. One of the unique aspects for conducting polymers is controlled-release devices, as well as biologically active ions and drugs such as adenosine 5-triphosphate, heparin, dexamethasone phosphate, glutamate and sulphosalicylic acid as a model of sulphonic drugs. During the last decade, polymers have gained tremendous recognition in the field of artificial sensor in the goal of mimicking natural sense organs. Beller selectivity and rapid measurements have been achieved by replacing classical sensor materials with polymers involving nano-technology and exploiting either the intrinsic functions of polymers. In this review, application of conducting polymers such as PPy and PANI in drug delivery systems, biosensors and preparation of artificial muscle such as robots, artificial limbs are discussed.