Modeling of network degradation in mixed step-chain growth polymerizations

摘要: The ability to form degradable hydrogels having controlled network structure is important for applications related both drug delivery and tissue engineering. Although significant advances have occurred, these cannot reach full potential without the availability of materials with tunable degradation behavior. Here, we present novel thiol‐acrylate networks, which provide a simple method forming networks specific profiles. Degradable are formed from copolymerizing thiol monomer PLA-b-PEG-b-PLA based diacrylate macromers. A theoretical model has been developed describe kinetic chain length distribution, bulk behavior, reverse gelation point hydrogels. Varying functionality, as well relative stoichiometries acrylate functional groups, provides facile means control distribution concomitant behavior systems. extent percentage mass loss at low 30% high 95%, thereby giving unique dictate material properties hydrogel before becomes completely soluble. q 2005 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.