Hydrogels with Gradient Properties: Preparation Methods and Characterization Techniques

abstract

English

In the past decades, hydrogels have been attracting extensive attention due to their ability to meet diverse needs of biomedical, environmental and personal care application. Moreover these materials can effectively mimic the interfacial, chemical, mechanical, structural and biological functions of native tissues. The application of bulk hydrogel constructs with uniform physical and chemical properties, however, does not fully reflect the in vivo-like situation, since tissues usually display various types of gradients. [1] Thus, there is a growing interest in developing approaches for the design and fabrication of gradient hydrogels that demonstrate direction-dependent properties (pore size, microstructure, stiffness etc.) and could thoroughly mimic or simulate the particular structures. Despite the already existing wide range of preparation methods of gradient hydrogels, characterization techniques, that could unambiguously confirm the existence of gradient structure, are still being pursued. This work introduces some of existing preparation and characterization techniques, intended for selected gradient materials, as well as the main factors affecting the spatial distribution of the final gradient.

hydrogel, gradient properties, scaffold

Natalia Zinkovska, Jiří Smilek, Miloslav Pekař

19. 10. 2022

Tanger Ltd.

Ostrava

978-80-88365-07-5

Nanocon 2022 14th International Conference on Nanomaterials - Research & Application Abstracts

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