We have developed a series of PEG based nanocomposite hydrogels with unique chemical, mechanical and biological properties. The injectable nanocomposite precursor solutions can be covalently cross-linked via photopolymerization. The resulting hydrogels have interconnected pores, high recoverable elongation and toughness. These properties can be tuned by changing the hydrogel composition, controlling polymer-nanoparticle interactions and degree of cross-linking (both covalent and non-covalent). Covalent cross-linking of polymer chains leads to the formation of an elastic hydrogel network, whereas additional non-covalent or physical cross-linking of polymer between nanoparticles induces viscoelastic properties. At high deformations covalent bonds may be broken but reversible and physical bonds rebuild and self-heal the overall network structure. Addition of silicate nanoparticles or hydroxyapatite also enhance bioactivity and adhesiveness of the hydrogel to soft and to hard surfaces. Collectively, the property combinations such as elasticity, stiffness, interconnected network, adhesiveness as well as cell growth provide inspiration and opportunities to engineer mechanically strong and elastic hydrogel matrixes for bio-technological and biomedical use.

Elastomeric and tough nanocomposite hydrogels from double cross-linked polymer networks

246th National Meeting (2013)

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.