Strain Dependence of the Viscoelastic Properties of Alginate Hydrogels

Rebecca E. Webber and Kenneth R. Shull*
Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Northwestern University, 2220 Campus Dr., Evanston, Illinois 60208-3108
Macromolecules, 2004, 37 (16), pp 6153–6160
DOI: 10.1021/ma049274n
Publication Date (Web): July 17, 2004
Copyright © 2004 American Chemical Society
*

In papers with more than one author, the asterisk indicates the name of the author to whom inquiries about the paper should be addressed.

Abstract

Alginates, naturally derived linear copolymers of 1,4-linked β-d-mannuronic acid and α-l-guluronic acid residues, can form hydrogels in the presence of divalent cations. In this study alginate hydrogels were formed by the addition of Ca2+ ions to aqueous solutions of sodium alginate. The rheological and mechanical behaviors of the hydrogels were studied using an axisymmetric probe tack apparatus with stress relaxation and cyclic movement capabilities. The hydrogels were subjected to high compressive strains (several units) to elucidate the source of nonelastic stress relaxation. These polysaccharide hydrogels behave elastically at small strains and become viscoelastic at large strains, a result that is responsible for the excellent toughness of the gels.

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History

  • Published In Issue August 10, 2004
  • Received April 14, 2004
    Revised Manuscript Received June 4, 2004

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