Synthesis and Properties of a Novel Conducting Hydrogel with Enhanced Mechanical Properties

A series of novel conducting nanocomposite (NC) hydrogels, poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) /Clay/MWNT, were synthesized by in situ free-radical polymerization. The chemical structure of the gels was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The temperature responsive behaviors and mechanical properties were also investigated in detail. The prepared NC gels presented a rising volume phase transition temperature (VPTT) and enhanced mechanical properties. When the water content reached 700%, the conductivity increased from 0.46 to 1.09 ms•cm-1 with the addition of MWNTs increasing from 0 to 1.19wt%. The improved mechanical strength and conductivity make the NC gels a potential material in the development of artificial muscles, biosensors, bioseparation and other advanced materials both academically and practically.