Hydrogels are used for producing contact lenses, hygiene products and wound dressings. Other commercial uses of hydrogels are in drug delivery and tissue engineering. More developments are expected in drug delivery and tissue engineering. High production costs of hydrogels are limiting their further commercialization.

What are hydrogels found in?

Hydrogels, also referred to as aqua gels, are a network of hydrophobic polymer chains that are sometimes found as colloidal gels in which water is the distribution medium. Hydrogels can be synthesized via natural or synthetic polymers and experience highly absorbent properties.

Why are hydrogels important in biomedical applications?

Compared with other types of biomaterials, hydrogels have distinct properties such as high water content, controllable swelling behavior, ease of handing, as well as biocompatibility, which makes them attractive for biomedical applications.