Abstract
Crosslinked poly(ethylene glycol)s (PEGs) were prepared by ultraviolet irradiation of low molar mass, liquid PEGs in the presence of benzophenone (BP) as a photoinitiator. The networks obtained have been characterized by DSC, IR, and contact angle measurements, and their water absorption and equilibrium swelling have been examined. The percent of gel formed and degree of swelling of the networks in water were dependent on the amount of BP in the reaction mixture, irradiation time and molar mass of PEG. Gel fraction yield exceeded 84%, and equilibrium swelling in water varied from 49 to 244%.