Gamma Radiation Induced Contraction of Alkyne Modified Polymer Hydrogels

Gamma radiation triggered secondary crosslinking of dextran hydrogels leads to macroscopic hydrogel contraction. The authors use stable polymer hydrogels, prepared through azide-alkyne crosslinking, containing surplus alkyne groups. ?-irradiation these gels more enabling controlled increase crosslink density, which in turn an stiffness and Gel contraction scales linearly with the applied dose. same mechanism is achieve ?-radiation release small molecule cargo, akin wringing out a sponge. touching objects gel fusion formation self-supporting connection, demonstrating reactivity excess They envision applications gluing construction complex architectures, as well responsive materials for release.