Synthesis and characterization of PVP/PVA hydrogels using E-beam irradiation

A series of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) hydrogels with different contents of polyvinylalcohol (PVA) have been prepared by E-beam irradiation. The gel fraction and strength of PVP/PVA hydrogels were increased with increasing the contents of PVA. On the contrary, the swelling degree was decreased. The PVP/PVA hydrogels were transparent and elastic, and have highly porous network.