Polymeric Hydrogels Sythesized via Photopolymerisation and Photocrosslinking

Polymeric hydrophilic gels (polymeric hydrogels) are networks of polymer chains comprising a strong hydrophilic crosslinked structure [1]. Polymeric hydrogels can absorb and retain significant amounts of water (> 20 wt.%) within their structures without dissolving into the water [2]. Hydrogels are useful as scaffolds in tissue engineering applications because they can support the growth of human cells for tissue repair. Environmentally sensitive hydrogels are sensitive to environmental stimuli, such as changes in the pH, temperature, or concentration of metabolites, and they can be designed to release their load in response. Hydrogels have been designed to display a response to a specific molecule, such as glucose or antigens, for use as a biosensor or drug delivery system (DDS). These types of hydrogels are useful in devices that control the release of a bioactive agent or agrochemical. Contact lenses are based on hydrogels. Special hydrogels composed of superabsorbent materials are widely employed in hygienic uses, particularly in disposable diapers or female napkins, for use in capturing fluids, such as urine or blood. Agricultural-grade hydrogel granules can retain soil moisture in arid areas [3-4]. An interesting class of hydrogels comprises polymeric hydrogel materials based on acrylics that form self-adhesive layers characterized by tack, peel adhesion, and shear strength under both dry and wet conditions. These hydrogels are useful as self-adhesive materials for bonding or drying wet surfaces.