Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 14, 2025

Synthesis of Stimuli-responsive Nanogels using Aqueous One-step Crosslinking and Co-nanopolymerization
Published on: January 24, 2025
A redox responsive polymeric gel based on ionic crosslinking
Shih-To Fei1, Mwita V B Phelps1, Yang Wang1
1Department of Chemistry, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park PA 16802, USA. hra@chem.psu.edu.
Abstract:
We report here an electrochemically responsive polymer hydrogel based on ionic crosslinking. The crosslinking by metal cations and anionic carboxylic acid side groups can be controlled by redox reactions. The crosslinks dissociate when the cation crosslinker is reduced to a lower oxidation state and reform following oxidation, which leads to a reversible and localized swelling-contraction. By choosing biocompatible components and miniaturization designs, the system has potential in microrobotic and biomedical applications.
Related Concept Videos
Ion Exchange
Redox Reactions
Anionic Chain-Growth Polymerization: Overview

