Group Adaptive Hydrogels
Vision & Mission
What do we do?
We study the interaction between optically active molecules and polymers and control their nanoscale arrangement.
Why we do this?
To improve the design of smart materials for non-invasive, optical-sensors, light-controlled drug delivery systems, and solar energy harvesting materials.
How do we do this?
- Synthesis of silicone and conventional hydrogels as well as amphiphilic block copolymers, and their functionalization with chromophores and fluorophores
- Design of multicompartment hydrogels via incorporation of vesicles, nano-sized hydrophobic domains, or silica/silicate nanoparticles
- Processing of polymer fibers (including polymer optical fibers) via microfluidic wet spinning and their functionalization with silica- and polymer-based nanoparticles
Who are we?
An interdisciplinary team of material scientists, chemists, pharmacists and mechanical and biomedical engineers.
Where are we at Empa?
We are part of the Laboratory for 'Biomimetic Membranes and Textiles' in Empa's Research Focus Area 'Health and Performance'
Dr. Luciano F. Boesel
