γ-Irradiated Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) and Citric Acid Blend Hydrogels: Swelling and Absorption Properties

Abstract

γ-Irradiated polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/Citric acid blend hydrogels were prepared. Effect of radiation dose on gel fraction and swelling properties were observed. Effect of pH and NaCl concentration on swelling ratio, water absorption and water desorption of γ-irradiated hydrogels were studied. It was found that gel fraction attains maximum up to a certain dose but swelling ratio as well as water absorption decreases with increase in radiation doses. Swelling properties decreases with the increase in concentration of NaCl solution too and increases with the increase of pH.