A new method for maintaining homogeneity during liquid–hydrogel transitions using low molecular weight hydrogelators

Adams, D. J. , Butler, M. F., Frith, W. J., Kirkland, M., Mullen, L. and Sanderson, P. (2009) A new method for maintaining homogeneity during liquid–hydrogel transitions using low molecular weight hydrogelators. Soft Matter, 5(9), pp. 1856-1862. (doi: 10.1039/b901556f)

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Abstract

We demonstrate a generic new approach to produce homogeneous and reproducible hydrogels from low molecular weight hydrogelators using the controlled hydrolysis of glucono-δ-lactone (GdL). GdL slowly hydrolyses in water to give gluconic acid, which controllably lowers the pH. This hydrolysis is slower than the rate of dissolution; hence uniform pH change throughout the sample is possible. This results in homogeneous hydrogels that are unaffected by their shear or mixing history. A further advantage of this method is that it allows the gelation process to be monitored, giving further insight into the mechanism by which gelation occurs.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Adams, Dave
Authors: Adams, D. J., Butler, M. F., Frith, W. J., Kirkland, M., Mullen, L., and Sanderson, P.
College/School:College of Science and Engineering > School of Chemistry
Journal Name:Soft Matter
Publisher:Royal Society of Chemistry
ISSN:1744-683X
ISSN (Online):1744-6848
Published Online:10 March 2009

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