Journal de la science et des applications des polymères

Hydrogels

Hydrogels are water-swollen polymeric materials which are definite 3-D network structures obtained from synthetic and natural polymers which can absorb and retain a significant amount of water. Hydrogels are the first biomaterials developed for human use. Hydrogels are formed by the cross-linking polymer chains through physical, ionic and covalent interactions and having the ability to absorb water.

Hydrogels having wide applications and used in wound dressing, drug delivery, agriculture, sanitary pads as well as transdermal systems, dental materials, implants, injectable polymeric systems, ophthalmic applications, hybrid-type organs.