The group of Chen TAO grafted phenylboronic acid alginate (Alg-PBA), acrylamide (AAm) and polyvinylalcohol (PVA), forming a network of PAAm which was dynamically adjusted by borate ester bonds, forming a second network (Alg-PBA-PVA). When the Alg-PBA-PVA hydrogel is damaged by an external force, energy is dissipated and the mechanical properties adjust. By modifying the number of PAAm cross-links, a series of hydrogels with good mechanical and self-healing properties can be prepared.
CAS news release, August 19, 2016