Mechanism and Process of Chemomechanical Contraction of Polyelectrolyte Gels Under Electric Field

When a water-swollen polyelectrolyte gel is interposed between a pair of electrodes and DC current is applied, the gel undergoes electro-chemomechanical contraction and concomitant water exudation both in water and in the air. In order to clarify the mechanism of the phenomenon, contractile experiments were carried out under various conditions and led to the conclusion that the contraction is essentially associated with electrically driven movement of hydrated micro- and macroions in the gel (electrokinetic process).