COMPOSITE GEL-BASED MATERIALS

摘要

A process for forming acomposite article composed of a gel with a support layer. The composite is formed by a gel-forming solution comprising of a polymeric material and a solvent, this gel-forming solution adsorbs onto a support layer. The formation process creates a gel andan adhesive bond between the gel and the support layer. The support layer is at least partially soluble in the solvent and the gel is attached to the support layer by freezing to form the gel on the support layer after a part of the support layer is solubilised by the solvent. The gel may be a hydrogel gel. The solvent may be water. The gel and the layer are physically interlocked. A composite is also described and has many end-use application including active agent delivery, dressings and coatings and in medical devices. Chemical cross-linking and additional adhesive are not required.