Elasticity, Strength, and Biocompatibility of Hydrogels

Hydrogels have been a familiar term in the current biomedical research. Generally, hydrogels are swollen polymer networks with water. Biocompatibility and ease of preparation are the key properties which enable them to be used in a variety of biomedical applications. Hydrogels can be classified in a number of ways depending on a wide range of properties. The chapter discusses in detail about the general properties, classification, mechanical properties, and biocompatibility of hydrogels. The special emphasis is on the biocompatibility. The factors affecting the elasticity and mechanical strength will be discussed along with the characterization techniques.