Preorganized hydrogel: self-healing properties of supramolecular hydrogels formed by polymerization of host-guest-monomers that contain cyclodextrins and hydrophobic guest groups.

Kakuta, Takahiro; Takashima, Yoshinori; Nakahata, Masaki; Otsubo, Miyuki; Yamaguchi, Hiroyasu; Harada, Akira · Adv Mater · 2013

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

Supramolecular hydrogels formed by a host-guest interaction show self-healing properties. The cube-shaped hydrogels with β-cyclodextrin and adamantane guest molecules mend after being broken. The hydrogels sufficiently heal to form a single gel, and the initial strength is restored. Although contact between a freshly cut and uncut surface does not mend the gels, two freshly cut surfaces selectively mend.

Medical subject headings