Responsive polymer films and capsules via layer-by-layer assembly

In recent years, the layer-by-layer (LbL) self-assembly technique has grown strong in its influence on chemistry, physics, materials science, and biology. One of the emerging trends in the area is the growing interest in design of polyelectrolyte multilayer films (PEMs) with specific response characteristics. This approach is significantly facilitated by the versatility and flexibility of the LbL technique. In this review, fundamental aspects of construction of PEMs responsive to a variety of external stimuli such as pH, ionic strength, temperature, light, magnetic field or specific biological moieties, and their possible applications are discussed.