Nanocomposite Hydrogels: A Unique Organic–Inorganic Network Structure with Extraordinary Mechanical, Optical, and Swelling/De-swelling Properties

Abstract

Novel nanocomposite hydrogels (NC gels) with a unique organic–inorganic (clay) network structure (see Figure) have been synthesized by in-situ free radical polymerization. The resulting NC gels exhibit high structural homogeneity, superior elongation with near-complete recovery, good swellability, and rapid de-swelling in response to temperature changes.