High-Toughness and Biodegradable Superabsorbent Hydrogels Based on Dual Functional Crosslinkers

Abstract

The fabrication of biodegradable superabsorbent hydrogels (SAHs) with a high absorption capacity and robust gel strength at an acceptable cost remains challenging. In this study, a series of hyperbranched polyether crosslinkers were designed and employed as effective crosslinkers to create feasible, high-performance superabsorbent hydrogels that are environmentally friendly. The hydrogel materials achieved greater strength compared with traditional hydrogels by using hyperbranched polyether to create a homogenous and strongly crosslinked polymer network. In addition, it was determined that the addition of modified sodium lignosulfonate improved several characteristics of traditional hydrogels, including the absorption and fixation of water, and that the produced hydrogels have good antibacterial properties. According to an analysis of the structure–activity relationship, the resultant SAHs achieve greater saturated gel strength (∼2 kPa) and swelling capacities (91.6 g/g in normal saline) compared with commercial products. This study provides a promising approach for the fabrication of biodegradable SAHs owing to its varied engineering applications, low cost, and good environmental profile.