Abstract
Hydrogels constructed from semi-interpenetrating polymer networks (semi-IPNs) of chitosan and polyaniline (CP) were prepared and the effect of various pH (1, 4, 7, 10) levels on the equilibrium water content (EWC) and electromechanical response were investigated. In swelling experiments, the freeze-dried membranes exhibited a high EWC value in acidic conditions. The electromechanical behavior of the CP membranes was also measured in a direct current electric field in pH buffer solutions. The electric potential induced bending actuation in the membrane, with the direction of bending being reversed in acidic and basic solutions. A novel oscillatory bending was observed in neutral electrolyte, which may ultimately prove useful as a simple propulsion mechanism in fishlike swimming robots or for simple pumps.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.