The Polymer Society of Korea

Abstract

Transient electronics face a persistent trade-off between operational reliability and effective end-of-life degradation. Inspired by fungal spores, we developed a biologically integrated device for programmable, on-demand biodegradation. The system features dormant Aspergillus niger spores encapsulated in a nutrient-rich hydrogel, which is enclosed within a heat-responsive polycaprolactone (PCL) shell. Upon thermal activation, a structural transition in the PCL shell increases its water permeability, allowing moisture to reach and revive the spores. The activated spores then germinate and release enzymes to digest the surrounding polymer substrates. This approach maintains complete structural integrity until triggered, enabling mild, spatially controlled, and self-contained degradation, thus advancing a sustainable and programmable future for transient electronics.