Preparing polymeric materials with high water absorption and studying their properties

Abstract In this study, the absorbency of the polymer prepared from polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), polyethylene glycol (PEG) and chitosan was measured, and tests of SEM, FTIR, and UV, as well as the mechanical properties related to tensile strength and elongation, were examined. The results of the SEM test showed that the polymer has a homogeneous structure without any defects or voids. Additionally, the surface roughness was observed, which is attributed to the addition of PEG, as it alters the surface morphology. The prepared polymer exhibited a high capacity to absorb large amounts of water over long periods of time. Furthermore, the tensile and elongation tests revealed that the addition of silver nanoparticles to the prepared polymer enhances its tensile strength