HYDROGEL- A REVIEW

Abstract

Hydrogel’s may be defined as a network of polymer chains that are  hydrophilic, water insoluble sometimes found as a colloidal gel in which  water is a dispersion medium. Their ability to absorbed water is because of  its cross linking network structure which is formed by polymer bearing  hydrophilic groups. Hydrogel’s are insoluble due to the presence of  chemical and physical cross-links Such as entanglements. It is also respond  to the fluctuation of environmental stimuli (ionic strength, temperature. pH,  presence of enzyme etc.) and swell or shrink accordingly in the swollen  state they are soft and rubbery resembling the living tissue exhibiting  excellent biocompatibility Hydrogel are commonly used in clinical practice  and experimental medicine for a wide range of applications, including food  additives, Tissue engineering, regenerative medicines, Pharmaceuticals  drug delivery devices and membranes for biosensors etc.