Hydrogel
Term: Hydrogel
Category: Chemistry
Definition: Hydrogels are a type of polymer that can absorb large quantities of water or biological liquids without breaking down. Polymer chains form a network that is connected through chemical or physical linkages. Because of this connectivity, hydrogels can expand when they swell. Natural and synthetic polymers may be used to create hydrogels, such as alginates, chitosans, gelatin, polyvinyl alcohol, and polyethylene glycol. When combined, the soft nature of hydrogels with their elasticity and moisture retention creates an artificial tissue that closely resembles the characteristics of genuine human tissue, making hydrogels particularly useful in biomedical fields.
Common Uses:
- Drug delivery systems for controlled release of therapeutics
- Wound dressings and tissue scaffolds in regenerative medicine
- Contact lenses and ocular implants
- Sensors, actuators, and soft robotics in biomedical engineering
- Hydrophilic coatings in medical devices to reduce friction and improve biocompatibility
Related Content and Resources:
Hydromer® Hydrophilic Coatings
