Gels and hydrogels

US9777154B2 · kind B2 · utility

Inventors

• Naihong Li · Cupertino, US
• Michael Williams · Edmonton, CA

Key dates

• Filing date: Nov 8, 2011
• Grant date: Oct 3, 2017
• Expiry date: Mar 22, 2034

Classification

• Technology area (CPC —): General

Abstract

Gels and gel-containing materials, including hydrogels, are described. A gel can be formed by blending polyacrylic acid (PAA) and a polyglycol, such as polytetramethylene ether glycol (PTMEG) at room temperature and, in some cases, without using a catalyst. The blend material can be used to form soft or hard materials, films and particles. The blend material can be combined with vinyl monomers and polymerize to form a hydrogel. The hydrogel can have a high mechanical strength and high water absorbency.