A novel single precursor-based biodegradable hydrogel with enhanced mechanical properties

Abstract

A mechanically tough biodegradable hydrogel is developed from a single precursor comprising poly(ethylene glycol) and oligo(trimethylene carbonate), where both the crosslink density and swelling properties of the polymer network are independently controlled through _c and hydrophilic-hydrophobic balance. These highly cost effective hydrogels are also biocompatible and can be degraded both hydrolytically and enzymatically.