Hydrodamides

Hydrodamides are a class of synthetic polymers that contain amide linkages within their repeating units, alongside a significant degree of hydrophilicity. These polymers are often synthesized through various polymerization techniques, typically involving monomers with both amide and hydroxyl functional groups or through post-polymerization modification to introduce these features. The presence of both amide and hydroxyl groups imparts unique properties to hydrodamides. The amide groups contribute to the polymer chain's rigidity and hydrogen bonding capabilities, influencing its thermal and mechanical stability. Simultaneously, the hydroxyl groups render the polymer highly water-soluble or water-swellable, forming hydrogels when crosslinked. This dual functionality makes hydrodamides attractive for applications where controlled interaction with water is crucial. Their applications span diverse fields, including drug delivery systems, where their ability to encapsulate and release therapeutic agents can be modulated by their water affinity. They are also explored in tissue engineering as scaffolds, biomaterials for wound healing, and in separation technologies. The precise properties of a hydrodamide can be tailored by adjusting the monomer composition, molecular weight, and degree of crosslinking.