Synthesis and characterization of polymeric hydrogel-based nanoporous composite and investigation of its temperature-dependent drug release activity
Hydrogels are 3-dimensional polymeric networks that undergo swelling when placed in an aqueous medium. The hydrogel-based polymers can respond to changes in the surrounding like temperature, pressure, pH, etc. Widespread cross-linking in hydrogels provides it with robustness, propensity for water, and better mechanical properties. The present work reports the one-pot chemical synthesis of a co-polymeric hydrogel-based composite using 2-HEMA (hydroxyethyl methacrylate), PEGMA (Polyethylene glycol), and PNIPAM (Poly (N-isopropyl acrylamide)). Extensive water retention ability and biocompatibility are some distinguishing features that enable it to be used for various biomedical applications. The hydrogel was characterized using X-ray diffraction analysis for its crystalline nature, scanning electron microscopy for surface morphology and pore size, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy for functional group analysis. Drug loading and release activity was performed and analyzed by Ultraviolet-Visible spectroscopy.