Properties, synthesis, characterization and application of hydrogel and magnetic hydrogels: A concise review

Abstract

Magnetic hydrogels are considered smart materials because they can respond to the magnetic field, and in some case, it can also present other sensibilities, like temperature, pH, etc. It can be obtained employing various techniques. Generally, their synthesis consists of a polymeric matrix and at least one magnetic component. The synthesis methods include the most common physical interactions (mixing method) and chemical crosslinking method (grafting method). Hydrogels and magnetic hydrogels can be used in different ways, since biomedical applications until agriculture and the environment. This diversity is based on their properties such as biodegradability, biocompatibility, atoxicity, absorption capacity, hydrophilicity. Beyond these properties, the incorporation of these magnetic particles is relatively easy, producing composites with good stability. It is believed that magnetic hydrogels will soon be able to replace existing materials with the full capacity both for application and for acceptance by the consumer likely.