Characterization study and optimization of swelling behavior for p(HEMA-co-Eudragit L-100) hydrogels by using Taguchi Method

Abstract

The aim of this study is to produce the smart hydrogel to use insulin release for human body. p(HEMA-co-Eudragit L-100) hydrogels containing different ratios of 2-Hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) and Eudragait L-100 were synthesized by using ammonium persulfate (APS) as an initiator and ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (EGDMA) as a cross linker. The structures of hydrogels produced were characterized by using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR) and Scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis. In this way, optimum synthesis conditions were determined for p(HEMA-co-Eudragit L-100) hydrogels by using Taguchi method as an optimization method. The gelling percentages of all hydrogels were calculated. After all, the swelling behaviors (%) of hydrogels were investigated in range of various times (1-44 hrs), temperatures (20-50°C) and pH (2-12) and the optimum process conditions in the production of hydrogels were determined. Consequently, the optimum time, temperature and pH were 24 hours, 37°C and 7, respectively. Thus, this hydrogel could be evaluated in insulin release for diabetes treatment and drug industry.