Research on the Thermal Aging Mechanism of Polyvinyl Alcohol Hydrogel

Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) hydrogels find applications in various fields, including machinery and tissue engineering, owing to their exceptional mechanical properties. However, the mechanical properties of PVA hydrogels are subject to alteration due to environmental factors such as temperature, affecting their prolonged utilization. To enhance their lifespan, it is crucial to investigate their aging mechanisms. Using physically cross-linked PVA hydrogels, this study involved high-temperature accelerated aging tests at 60 °C for 80 d and their performance was analyzed through macroscopic mechanics, microscopic morphology, and microanalysis tests. The findings revealed three aging stages, namely, a reduction in free water, a reduction in bound water, and the depletion of bound water, corresponding to volume shrinkage, decreased elongation, and a “tough-brittle” transition. The microscopic aging mechanism was influenced by intermolecular chain spacing, intermolecular hydrogen bonds, and the plasticizing effect of water. In particular, the loss of bound water predominantly affected the lifespan of PVA hydrogel structural components. These findings provide a reference for assessing and improving the lifespan of PVA hydrogels.