pH- and sugar-induced shape memory hydrogel based on reversible phenylboronic acid-diol ester bonds
Hao Meng1, Jing Zheng, Xiufang Wen
1School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510641, China; Division of Polymer and Composite Materials, Ningbo Institute of Material Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Science, Ningbo, 315201, China.
Macromolecular Rapid Communications
|January 30, 2015
Summary
This study introduces a novel shape memory hydrogel using dynamic phenylboronic acid-diol interactions. The material responds to pH and sugar levels, enabling controlled shape recovery for advanced applications.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Polymer Chemistry
- Biomaterials
Background:
- Dynamic covalent chemistry offers tunable material properties.
- Hydrogels with shape memory effects are valuable for smart applications.
- Controlling hydrogel behavior with external stimuli like pH and sugars is an active research area.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel pH- and sugar-responsive shape memory hydrogel.
- To utilize dynamic phenylboronic acid-diol interactions for temporary crosslinking.
- To investigate the shape memory performance triggered by environmental changes.
Main Methods:
- Synthesis of phenylboronic acid-modified sodium alginate (Alg-PBA).
- Fabrication of hydrogels by combining Alg-PBA and poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA).
- Evaluation of hydrogel shape memory properties under varying pH and sugar concentrations (glucose, fructose).
Main Results:
- Successfully constructed a hydrogel exhibiting pH- and sugar-induced shape memory behavior.
- Dynamic phenylboronic acid-diol ester bonds were confirmed as effective temporary crosslinks.
- The hydrogel demonstrated shape stabilization and recovery in response to acidic conditions and specific sugars.
Conclusions:
- The developed hydrogel offers a simple yet effective strategy for stimuli-responsive shape memory materials.
- The dynamic PBA-diol interactions provide a versatile platform for designing smart hydrogels.
- This work paves the way for advanced applications in areas like drug delivery and soft robotics.
