Hydrogel Preparation via Alkoxide Cross-Linking
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current hydrogel preparation methods using synthetic polymers and resins often result in carcinogenic residues, incomplete removal of monomers and reagents, and lack stability, especially when exposed to water, while natural hydrogels have short lifespans and compatibility issues.
Innovation Solution
A process involving the reaction of polymers with hydroxyl functions and compounds containing double bonds in an aqueous basic environment to form cross-linked hydrogels through ether bond formation, using preferred polymers like polyvinyl alcohol and monomers like diacrylates, ensuring complete removal of residues and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If synthetic polymers and resins are used for hydrogel preparation, then the hydrogel structure can be formed, but carcinogenic residues and incomplete removal of monomers and reagents remain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes harmful residues including unreacted monomers, oligomers, and reagent impurities from the hydrogel preparation process through extensive washing and purification steps, ensuring complete elimination of carcinogenic substances while maintaining the hydrogel structure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the chemical parameters of the preparation process by using specific monomers and controlled polymerization conditions, along with pH adjustment and temperature control during washing, to eliminate harmful residues while forming a biocompatible hydrogel structure
2Manufacturing precision
If thorough washing is performed to remove residues, then purity improves, but the thick mass of hydrogel prevents homogeneous penetration of washing solution
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the washing process into multiple sequential steps with different washing solutions and methods, allowing progressive penetration and removal of residues from the thick hydrogel mass through staged purification rather than single-step washing
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces time as an additional dimension to the washing process by performing prolonged washing under controlled conditions, allowing the washing solution to progressively penetrate the thick hydrogel mass through diffusion and convection over extended periods
3Stability of the object's composition
If UV rays or gamma rays are used for hydrogel formation, then cross-linking occurs, but physical changes reduce stability over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical cross-linking methods (UV irradiation, gamma radiation) with chemical cross-linking through controlled polymerization reactions, substituting physical energy input with chemical reaction mechanisms to form stable covalent bonds that maintain long-term stability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the cross-linking mechanism from physical (radiation-induced) to chemical (polymerization-induced), adjusting reaction parameters such as monomer concentration, initiator type, and temperature to achieve stable cross-linked structures without physical degradation
4Duration of action of moving object
If animal or vegetal raw materials are used, then biodegradability improves, but mean life becomes very moderate and compatibility issues arise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates composite hydrogel materials combining synthetic polymers with controlled biodegradability features, integrating the advantages of both synthetic (stability, purity) and natural (biodegradability) materials through copolymerization or blending approaches
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The resulting hydrogels are non-toxic, biocompatible, biodegradable, and highly versatile, with uniform structure and consistency, suitable for medical and aesthetic applications, free of residual monomers, and maintaining viscosity over time.
Implementation Method 1
cross-linking takes place through the formation of ether bonds between the hydroxyl groups of said polymer and/or a copolymer and the double bonds of said at least one monomer
Data Source
AI summary
A process for the preparation of a completely biocompatible and reabsorbable hydrogel, through the use of alkoxides of polymers and/or resins containing hydroxyl functions. The invention also relates to the hydrogel obtainable with the method and uses thereof. In particular, the invention relates to the use of the hydrogel for the preparation of an injectable filler for correcting and/or treating different types of tissue deficits.