Synthesis and Characterization of pH and Temperature-Sensitive Semi-IPN Hydrogels

A series of novel cross-linked poly N-isopropylacrylamide (PNIPAM)/poly diallyl dimethyl ammonium chloride (PDMDAAC) semi-IPN hydrogels were synthesized through free radical solution polymerization in water at 30°C. FTIR was used to characterize the structure of resultant hydrogels. The pH and temperature sensitivity of hydrogels were systematicly studied, and the swelling properties of hydrogels were also explored. The results show that the semi-IPN hydrogels have both temperature and pH sensitivities. The hydrogels exhibit fast swelling rate and excellent stimuli-responsive behavior.