Block copolymers of hexamethylene diisocyanate (HMI) and poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) were synthesized using a one-pot reaction.  The combination of a hydrophobic block, HMI, and a hydrophilic block, PEG, afforded self-assembly into a hydrogel via microphase separation of the HMI blocks into hydrophobic domains upon exposure to water.  The resulting hydrogel could swell up to four times its mass when placed in water.  The molecular weight of the block copolymer and the swelling ratio were controlled by varying the stoichiometry of the reaction and the molecular weight of the PEG block. The reactions produced a physically cross-linked hydrogel that could be easily dissolved in common solvents such as ethanol, isopropanol, cyclohexanone, and toluene.  The ability of the hydrogel to be dissolved in environmentally friendly solvents allows for it to be applied as a spray paint using standard spraying equipment.  The adhesion to polyurethane coated metal surfaces was exceptional.  Swollen films would routinely stress the underlying polyurethane beyond its yield point rather than delaminate from the surface.  A copolymer made of poly(hexamethylene diisocyante) and a 4000 molecular weight PEG in a stoichiometric ratio of 1:1 showed the best adhesion and swelling characteristics.

Synthesis of a solvent processable hydrogel for use as an anti-fouling and drag reducing coating

248th National Meeting (2014)

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