Hydrogels are formed by networks of hydrophilic polymer chains swollen by a large amount of water. They do not dissolve in water because all polymer chains are integrated into one network by either covalent or physical crosslinks. With their high water content, minimal surface friction, and degree of flexibility, hydrogels are ideal materials for a number of biomedical applications such as wound dressings and eye implants. However, in the absence of reinforcement hydrogels have been known to display extremely weak mechanical properties. The purpose of this project is to develop a strong hydrogel using lessons learned from rubber reinforcement. The precursor polymer for hydrogel was synthesized via grafting amine-terminated polystyrene onto an isobutylene-maleic anhydride alternating copolymer. Hydrogels were processed through development, neutralization, and swelling of a precursor polymer film with an aqueous basic solution. Polystyrene glassy domains act as physical crosslinks and reinforcing fillers to give the gel high strength. The hydrogel will be characterized using tensile tests to determine its strength.<br/>

Synthesis of a hydrogel via grafting of polystyrene onto an isobutylene-maleic anhydride alternating copolymer

251st National Meeting (2016)

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