Stimuli-responsive microgel-based etalons for optical sensing

Responsive polymer-based materials (or smart materials) have found numerous uses over the years due to their ease of synthesis and various responsivities/functionalities. Of them, stimuli-responsive hydrogel particles (microgels) have generated a lot of interest, and have been used for a number of applications, most importantly for this submission is their use as components of photonic materials. In this review, we highlight a few key examples of the use of stimuli-responsive materials for sensing applications, with a particular focus on our work with microgel-based etalons. Responsive polymers have found numerous applications over the years. This review highlights their use as components of photonic materials, with emphasis on responsive polymer-based etalons. The use of these materials for sensing and biosensing is detailed.