Alginate-Poly(Ethylene) Glycol and Poly(Ethylene) Oxide Blend Materials

Abstract The achievement of anticipated properties with enhanced processability and low cost made the polymeric blends most relevant materials for various industrial sectors. The prospective applicability of natural–synthetic polymer blends has already grasped the attention of researchers. Among the biopolymers, the role of alginates has broadened with the recognition that they have a number of potentially useful applications. Water soluble polyether polymers such as poly(ethylene) oxide (PEO) and poly(ethylene) glycol (PEG) are nontoxic, and biocompatible hence significantly participates in polymer blend technology. ​ Keeping in view the multifunctional properties of alginates, the present chapter highlights the principal aspects in the development of water-soluble polyethers, especially PEO- and PEG-based alginate blends. Furthermore, critical structure–property relationships of PEO/PEG-alginate electrospun fiber, hydrogel microbeads, composites and the role of surfactant along with potential applications (especially in drug delivery systems) ​ are also discussed.