Smart hydrogels in devices

Neil B. Graham

doi:10.1117/12.184844

13 September 1994 Smart hydrogels in devices

Neil B. Graham

Proceedings Volume 2361, Second European Conference on Smart Structures and Materials; (1994) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.184844
Event: Smart Structures and Materials: Second European Conference, 1994, Glasgow, United Kingdom

Abstract

Hydrogels are materials which will swell in water but not dissolve. They are a large family of materials rather than a single entity. Indeed much of living tissue comprises hydrogel and the variety and function of this class presents the scope for the development of synthetic materials which can perform many so-called 'Smart' functions. The action of muscles, the selectivity of membranes and the contraction and expansion of various sphincters and the control of blood flow in veins and arteries might all be simulated with synthetic analogues. Such materials are now being demonstrated and systems which undergo large dimensional changes with changes in hydrogen ion or other ionic concentration have been reported while hydrogels which bend when subjected to an electrical potential difference have been made. Hydrogels can be incorporated into devices which can act as transducers, as sensors and as accurately controlled timing devices for the release of drugs and in other potential applications. This paper will illustrate a selection of these applications utilizing hydrogels developed in our laboratories and based on crosslinked poly (ethylene oxide). The dry form of the hydrogel will be referred to as a xerogel and the term hydrogel will refer to the material swollen to some degree with water.

Citation Download Citation

Neil B. Graham "Smart hydrogels in devices", Proc. SPIE 2361, Second European Conference on Smart Structures and Materials, (13 September 1994); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.184844

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