Term: Hydrogen Bonding

Category: Chemistry

Definition: Hydrogen bonding is a type of attraction that happens between a hydrogen atom and an electronegative atom like oxygen, nitrogen, or fluorine. Hydrogen bonds are not as strong as covalent bonds, but are stronger than the majority of other intermolecular forces. In the case of both polymers and biological materials, hydrogen bonds can enhance several properties of these materials, including adhesion, plasticity, hydrophilicity, and tensile strength.

Example Uses: 

• Helping form hydrogels and retain water
• Improving stickiness and film formation in coatings and plastics
• Playing a role in how drugs interact with their targets and in recognizing molecules

Related Content and Resources: 

Hydrophilic Coating Polymers and Chemistries: Complete Guide

Hydrophilic Coatings for Medical Devices: Intro, Benefits & Uses