Dynamics of water molecules in polymers

When water is incorporated into a host matrix such as a polymer its behaviour is significantly different from the anticipated response of normal water. This brief review examines the complex, non-equilibrium character of water in a number of hydrated systems which find routine application in the commercial world. In relating the macroscopic properties of hydrated polymers to events at a molecular level, the major advantages to be gained from the use of a range of experimental approaches over a wide temperature range are clearly demonstrated.