Structure and Dynamics Evolution of Water and porosity of crosslinked Chitosan Hydrogels at various temperatures (Dew Gel)

Chitosan, a natural polymer, is frequently combined with poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and crosslinked with environmentally friendly agents like citric acid (CA) to form sustainable 3D hydrogels. However, maintaining structural integrity at elevated temperatures remains a challenge, as secondary bonds within the hydrogel tend to weaken above 37°C. This study investigates the thermal stability and water diffusion behavior of chitosan/PVA hydrogels at temperatures up to 50°C using neutron imaging. Our goal is to enhance the hydrogel’s stability under higher temperatures by analyzing water transport and pore dynamics over time. Deuterated solvents will be used to improve imaging contrast, providing valuable insights into the hydrogel’s structural changes. The findings from this research will inform the development of more robust, temperature-resistant hydrogels for medical and practical applications.