Physicochemical properties of hydrogels for use in ophthalmology

This chapter deals with the physicochemical aspects of structure-property relationships in hydrogels, with particular reference to their application in optometry and ophthalmology. It demonstrates the ways in which the amount of water contained in the hydrogel network can be manipulated by changes in copolymer composition, and illustrates the advantages and limitations imposed by use of water as a means of influencing surface, transport and mechanical properties of the gel. The chapter then proceeds to show how interpenetrating networks and macroporous materials, in which behaviour is not so centrally dominated by the equilibrium water content as is the case with homogeneous hydrogels, provide advantageous ways of extending the properties of these interesting materials. 2010 Woodhead Publishing Limited All rights reserved.