We describe a new approach to creating hybrid polymer hydrogels that comprise two different gel types (gel 1 and gel 2) juxtaposed in predetermined zones or patterns and with the unique properties of each gel being retained. The key to our approach is to ensure that the viscosities of the pregel mixtures are high when they are brought into contact and subsequently polymerized; this limits the diffusion at gel/gel interfaces. The final gel appears as a single, homogeneous, transparent material with smooth, robust interfaces between the dissimilar zones. However, its hybrid nature is revealed by specific tests. In one example, we use different monomers for gels 1 and 2. The polymer of gel 1 changes volume in response to pH or temperature changes while the polymer of gel 2 does not. As a result, when the hybrid gel is exposed to a temperature or pH value that induces volume change of gel 1, gel 2 remains unaffected. The overall approach described here can be extended in myriad ways for the generation of gels possessing new and unique properties.

Hybrid gels comprising temperature and pH responsive zones in the same material

245th National Meeting (2013)

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