@misc{wischke_method_for_2014, author={Wischke, C., Lendlein, A.}, title={Method for Preparation, Programming, and Characterization of Miniaturized Particulate Shape-Memory Polymer Matrices}, year={2014}, howpublished = {journal article}, doi = {https://doi.org/10.1021/la4025926}, abstract = {Their capability to change their shape on demand has created significant interest for shape-memory polymers (SMPs) in minimally invasive surgery. To evaluate the miniaturization of SMP matrices for small-sized implants or controlled release systems, a strategy to prepare and evaluate microsized SMP model particles is required. This methodological study reports the emulsion-based preparation of ∼30 μm microparticles (MPs) from a phase-segregated SMP, poly(ε-caprolactone) [PCL] and poly(ω-pentadecalactone) [PPDL], with a particular focus on the effects of process parameters such as polymer solvents or stabilizer type/concentration on formation and size distribution of SMP MPs. Processes for the preparation of SMP MP-loaded water-soluble polymer films with tailored mechanical properties were developed and applied for programming the SMP MP to a temporary ellipsoid shape by film stretching. For the functional evaluation of shape recovery of MPs, a light microscopy-based setup with temperature control is proposed by which the stimuli-induced switching of the microsized SMP matrices could be confirmed. Overall, by applying this methodological strategy to various thermoplastic SMPs, a routine to identify and characterize the microscale functionality of SMPs in miniaturized applications will be broadly accessible.}, note = {Online available at: \url{https://doi.org/10.1021/la4025926} (DOI). Wischke, C.; Lendlein, A.: Method for Preparation, Programming, and Characterization of Miniaturized Particulate Shape-Memory Polymer Matrices. Langmuir. 2014. vol. 30, no. 10, 2820-2827. DOI: 10.1021/la4025926}}