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Multiphysics Modeling of Electrochemomechanically Smart Microgels Responsive to Coupled pH/Electric Stimuli
Author(s) -
Li Hua,
Luo Rongmo,
Lam Khin Yong
Publication year - 2009
Publication title -
macromolecular bioscience
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.924
H-Index - 105
eISSN - 1616-5195
pISSN - 1616-5187
DOI - 10.1002/mabi.200800139
Subject(s) - multiphysics , electric field , ionic strength , self healing hydrogels , charge density , displacement (psychology) , swelling , voltage , bending , ionic bonding , materials science , mechanics , chemistry , composite material , chemical physics , thermodynamics , physics , finite element method , polymer chemistry , ion , electrical engineering , engineering , aqueous solution , psychology , organic chemistry , quantum mechanics , psychotherapist
A multiphysics model is developed to simulate the responsive behavior of smart pH‐/electric‐sensitive hydrogels when immersed into pH buffer solution and subjected to an externally applied electric field, which is termed the MECpHe model. Comparison with experimental data shows the MECpHe model to be accurate and stable. The influence of the externally applied electric voltage is discussed with respect to the distribution of diffusive ionic species and the displacement of the hydrogel strip. The influences of initial charge density and ionic strength on the swelling ratio and the bending deformation of the microgel strip are studied.