Percolation-induced gel-gel phase separation in a dilute polymer network

Area of Science:

• Physical Chemistry
• Materials Science
• Tissue Engineering

Background:

• Non-equilibrium organized systems, like cosmic structures and biological tissues, arise from dissipative processes.
• Replicating these complex self-organizing properties in artificial systems remains a significant scientific challenge.
• Understanding dissipative phenomena is key to developing advanced functional materials.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate a dissipative network formation process in a dilute polymer-water mixture.
• To explore the resulting gel-gel phase separation and its characteristics.
• To evaluate the potential applications of the novel material, particularly in tissue engineering.

Main Methods:

• Formation of a dissipative network in a dilute polymer-water mixture.
• Observation of percolation-induced gel-gel phase separation during the deswelling process.
• Characterization of the resulting two co-continuous gel phases, including the dilute-percolated gel.

Main Results:

• A spontaneous phase separation into two co-continuous gel phases occurred, forming a submillimetre scale structure.
• The dilute-percolated gel, comprising 99% water, demonstrated unexpected hydrophobic properties.
• This unique gel induced the development of adipose-like tissues when implanted in subcutaneous tissues.

Conclusions:

• Dissipative network formation can lead to self-assembly of complex structures in synthetic systems.
• The resulting highly hydrated yet hydrophobic gel possesses unique properties suitable for advanced applications.
• This work opens avenues for developing functional dissipative structures in physical chemistry and regenerative medicine.