• Question: What are hydrogels?

    Asked by annalicious to Joseph on 14 Jun 2010 in Categories: . This question was also asked by ardelyn07, fickleandshazbaz.
    • Photo: Joseph Cook

      Joseph Cook answered on 14 Jun 2010:

      Hydrogels are networks of cross-linked polymers that can absorb large amounts of water – they are kind of like sponges in this way. When hydrogels take up water, they tend to be jelly-like and flexible.

      They are used in many applications like contact lenses, wound dressings and nappies. They are useful in nappies because they absorb water. They are useful in contact lenses because they are flexible. We are trying to make new hydrogels and find new things to use them for.

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