Preparation and properties of morphology controlled poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate)/poly(N-vinyl pyrrolidone) double networks for biomedical use

Poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate)/poly(N-vinyl pyrrolidone) (PHEMA/PVP) double networks (DN) were prepared using a sequential method by incorporating a second network of crosslinked PVP into PHEMA. We found that the distributions of the two networks can be regulated just by modulating the morphology of the first network, thus giving expected high water content of these gels. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and scanning electronic microscopy (SEM) were used to confirm the structure of the DN. The incorporation of more hydrophilic PVP enhanced swelling ability of these gels. Because of improved hydrophilicity, the PHEMA/PVP DN exhibited higher loading capability for water-soluble substance than that of pure PHEMA, while showed a slower release rate than corresponding HEMA/NVP copolymer hydrogel. It is suggested that the DN gels are potential biomaterials for wound dressing, medical implants and other drug delivery systems.