Development of ionic liquids-based electroconductive hydrogels

Abstract

Conventional methods for obtaining electroconductive hydrogels by the incorporation of nanomaterials and conducting polymers present great technical limitations. These are mainly associated with cytotoxicity as well as low solubility, processability and biodegradability. In this project, we propose a strategy for obtaining hydrogels by the functionalization of non-conductive polymers with conductive and non-toxic ionic liquids derived from imidazole and choline. In addition to structurally characterizing hydrogels, we will determine their electroconductive and mechanical properties as well as pore size, degree of swelling and degradation. Additionally, the objective of this project is the biological characterization of these hydrogels, since they can be used in many biomedical applications. Cytotoxic properties, cell adhesion, growth and differentiation will be determined in the presence of hydrogels. Synthesis and molecular characterization of the hydrogels will be done by the team of the RS and the characterization of the electroconductive, mechanical properties, and the determination of pore size, degree of swelling, degradation will be performed by the team of São Paulo. The determination of the biological properties will be determined jointly by the two teams and collaborators. Considering the main objectives of this work, the expected results are classified in results of scientific production, training of human resources, and attendance to the interests of society. (AU)