Synthesis and characterization of electroactive epoxy-based interpenetrating polymer network gel

Epoxy/poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) interpenetrating polymer network gels were prepared by varying the excess amine content in the matrix (0.40.6?equivalent). All the samples were characterized for mechanical properties and swelling in distilled water. The topography of polymer network was characterized by atomic force microscopy. The 0.5?equiv. excess amine sample exhibited optimum properties. Studies on swelling at different pH and electroactivity in different aqueous solution were performed. The bending angle observed during first 1?min was 15 degrees at 310?V and a maximum of 25 degrees in 5?min at 20?V for 0.5?equiv. excess amine in NaCl solution. Copyright (c) 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.