New “smart” poly(NIPAM) microgels and nanoparticle microgel hybrids: Properties and advances in characterisation

This review is devoted to poly(NIPAM) based microgels and nanoparticle/polymer hybrid microgels. It tries to give a brief overview of recent developments with respect to new systems and experimental methods. The properties of these fascinating materials are reported together with advances in their characterisation by imaging and scattering techniques. Aspects of their application in the area of mesotechnology will also be discussed.