Liquid Crystal Polymers: Overview of Characteristics and Applications in Communication and Biomedical Technologies

Liquid crystals polymers (LCPs) are aromatic polymers with unique properties which enable their usage in various applications. LCPs are herein discussed, in particular their molecular structures and phases, which posses unique properties i.e. tunability and biocompatibility characteristics. Based on those propoerties, LCPs are very valuable and popular in communication and biomedical technologies. They were used in designing beam steering devices, phase shifters, and reconfigurable meta-materials in communication technology. While they were also investigated as actuators to trigger the release of pharmaceutical drugs following internal or external stimuli application in biomedical technology. Further, they were also investigated as functional materials in prosthetics, and replacement surgery and as components of biomedical devices for diagnostics and surgical purposes as biosensor chips and as a source of surgical lasers.