Issue 1, 2017

Double-networks based on pH-responsive, amphiphilic “core-first” star first polymer conetworks prepared by sequential RAFT polymerization

Abstract

This manuscript presents the preparation and study of a new double-network hydrogel system, comprising an amphiphilic, pH-responsive first polymer conetwork synthesized via reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization, and a second hydrophilic polymer network prepared via free radical photopolymerization. The amphiphilic character of the first conetwork led to its phase separation on the nanoscale, as indicated by small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) in deuterium oxide, whereas the presence of segments consisting of tertiary amine-bearing monomer repeating units resulted in pH-dependent equilibrium swelling in water. Finally, the introduction of a second, reinforcing network into the structure of the first conetwork produced a double-network hydrogel system with mechanical properties (compressive stress and strain at break, and low-strain elastic modulus) superior to those of the first conetwork. Thus, the present complex hydrogel system bears three important functions: high mechanical properties to endure an environment with high stresses, hydrophobic pockets to solubilize non-polar substances within an overall aqueous milieu, and an ability to respond to changes in pH. Such multi-functional water-swollen polymer systems can pave the way toward next-generation biomaterials.

Graphical abstract: Double-networks based on pH-responsive, amphiphilic “core-first” star first polymer conetworks prepared by sequential RAFT polymerization

Article information

Article type
Paper
Submitted
01 8 2016
Accepted
18 9 2016
First published
19 9 2016

Polym. Chem., 2017,8, 245-259

Double-networks based on pH-responsive, amphiphilic “core-first” star first polymer conetworks prepared by sequential RAFT polymerization

E. N. Kitiri, C. S. Patrickios, C. Voutouri, T. Stylianopoulos, I. Hoffmann, R. Schweins and M. Gradzielski, Polym. Chem., 2017, 8, 245 DOI: 10.1039/C6PY01340F

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