Hydrogel Opals

Abstract

Hydrogel opals, exhibiting striking iridescence while being soft and gelatinous, can be synthesized by covalent bonding (through crosslinkers) of self-assembled hydrogel nanoparticles, which consist of N-isopropyl-acrylamide copolymers with reactive side groups. Beyond their aesthetic value (see Figure and also cover) hydrogel opals are potentially useful as thermo- or electrochromic gel sensors.