In today's industry, the presence of polymers is spreading as new materials and uses are being discovered. A new and exciting branch of polymer chemistry includes the development of stimuli sensitive polymers. In the form of gels, these "smart" polymers have the ability to undergo a phase change by slightly altering their environment. This change can occur when the polymers are in the presence of a number of different variables including, but not limited to: temperature, pH, light, and salt concentrations. Another area of study under development along with the polymer gels, is the creation of a stimuli sensitive textile material (SSTM). Joining a stimuli sensitive gel with a fiber, fabric, or other textile material creates a SSTM. Now the material can respond to outside influences by swelling or collapsing. By being able to control which stimulus affects which SSTM, many possible applications become apparent. For instance, if the SSTM would respond to changes in temperature new "smarter" athletic apparel could be created to keep the wearer cooler or warmer. Also, bio-medical, industrial, and agricultural fields have begun research into the possible uses of these stimuli sensitive textile materials. Along with the obvious advantages, stimuli sensitive textile materials provide other benefits. Some of the more obscure benefits are economical savings, complete automation, and less pollution.
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