Dynamics of water imbibition through hydrogel-coated capillary tubes

Capillary flow through hydrogel-coated capillary tubes was investigated experimentally and theoretically. The results show how the absorption and swelling of hydrogel regulate capillary flow. Water imbibition through porous hydrogel materials can be understood as analogous to flow through a channel that deforms with water absorption. Therefore, this study provides a better understanding of water absorption through porous hydrogel materials, which are widely used for agricultural substrates, hygienic products, and microfluidic devices.