PolyacrylamidHydrogel

Polyacrylamide hydrogel, often abbreviated as PAAm hydrogel, is a cross-linked polymer network formed from acrylamide monomers. These hydrogels are characterized by their ability to absorb and retain large amounts of water, swelling to many times their dry size. The cross-linking agent, typically N,N'-methylenebisacrylamide (BIS), creates a three-dimensional network structure that prevents the individual polymer chains from dissolving. The degree of cross-linking significantly influences the hydrogel's properties, such as its swelling ratio, mechanical strength, and pore size. PAAm hydrogels are known for their transparency, biocompatibility, and tunable physical characteristics, making them versatile materials for various applications. They can be synthesized in a range of stiffnesses, from soft and flexible to more rigid. The water content within the hydrogel can be controlled by adjusting synthesis conditions and the surrounding environment. These materials have found utility in areas such as drug delivery, tissue engineering scaffolds, contact lenses, and as matrices for cell culture. Their ability to mimic biological tissues in terms of water content and mechanical properties is a key factor in their widespread use.