Preparation of PVA/SA Interpenetrating Double Network Municipal Sludge Hydrogel and the Study of pH Response

Abstract

The rapid urbanization underscores the urgency of efficient treatment and resource utilization of municipal sludge for environmental conservation. To address this, a novel pH-responsive dual network polyvinyl alcohol/sodium alginate sludge hydrogel was devised by integrating municipal sludge with acrylic acid monomers, ammonium persulphate initiator, N, N’-methylene bisacrylamide crosslinking agent, reinforced by polyvinyl alcohol and sodium alginate through free radical cross-linking polymerization. The hydrogel’s optimal formulation was identified by adjusting the monomer, crosslinking agent, and initiator dosage while assessing its swelling behavior across various pH environments. Results revealed excellent swelling capacity, notably exhibiting a remarkable swelling capacity of up to 7265.64% at pH 11.0, suggesting the hydrogel’s potential in environmental remediation and innovative material design. This research presents a pioneering approach to harnessing municipal sludge and developing intelligent hydrogels, fostering sustainable resource management.