Decoupling the role of mechanics, thermodynamics and transport in polymer-based systems

Porous polymeric membranes comprise a cross-linked polymer network of empty spaces, whereby water and analyte molecules fill these voids when the membrane is immersed in a solution. Consequently, the membrane transforms into a hydrogel that swells or shrinks as molecules enter or exit it, respectively. In this project, mathematical models were developed to address two crucial aspects, namely the modulation of molecule sorption by varying the mechanical strain of hydrogel and the effect of multivalent receptor-analyte binding in tuning the hydrogel shrinkage. By theoretically understanding these factors, polymer-based platforms can be reliably designed for advanced biosensing and drug delivery systems.