Controlling the mechanical properties of hydrogels <i>via</i> modulating the side-chain length
Takuma Kureha, Kazuma Takahashi, Mion Kino, Hikaru Kida, Takuto Hirayama
Abstract
Even though the toughness of hydrogels is usually adjusted by changing the cross-linking density and structure, or the polymer concentration, we have discovered a new strategy to control the toughness via modulating the side-chain length.
Topics & Concepts
Self-healing hydrogelsSide chainEthylene oxideEthylene glycolMethacrylatePolymerToughnessPolymer chemistryChemical engineeringMaterials scienceEtherChemistryOrganic chemistryComposite materialCopolymerEngineeringHydrogels: synthesis, properties, applicationsAdvanced Polymer Synthesis and CharacterizationElectrospun Nanofibers in Biomedical Applications