Abstract
The hydration of amphiphilic polymers with some different hydrophilic centers, such as poly(2-(2-methoxyethoxy)ethyl methacrylate) (PMEO2MA), is important to understand well their thermo-responsivity. The PMEO2MA hydrogels with varying swelling degree, synthetized by radiation-induced cross-linking polymerization, has been investigated by ATR-FTIR supported by DFT calculations. This study broadens the knowledge about mechanism of hydration of PMEO2MA and explores the relationships between the water content in hydrogels, polymer-water, and water-water interactions. A complete picture of hydration processes of all hydrophilic centers (carbonyl and ether groups) was shown and correlated with water structure for the first time. It was found that firstly, small water clusters, and water bridges between the polymer segments are formed. Next, the bridges break and polymer chains start to separate. Finally, water tend to structure characteristic for bulk water. The obtained results may be an excellent basis for the analysis of local changes in PMEO2MA hydration during volume phase transition.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: 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.
