Design and Rheological Characterization of <scp>PAAm</scp> ‐Pectin‐Glycerol Double‐Network Organogels for Next‐Generation Soft Materials

ABSTRACT This study presents the development and rheological evaluation of PAAm–pectin–glycerol double network (DN) organogels designed for advanced functional applications. A hybrid network was synthesized by combining covalently crosslinked polyacrylamide (PAAm) with ionically crosslinked pectin, while glycerol served as a plasticizer to enhance thermal stability and solvent retention. Rheological analysis across varying glycerol contents revealed significant tunability in viscoelastic behavior, with increased damping, energy dissipation, and thermal resilience with increasing glycerol content. Scanning electron microscopy confirmed the structural densification of the PAAm–pectin hydrogel relative to the PAAm hydrogel, attributed to the formation of an interpenetrating pectin network. The organogels exhibited strong nonlinear viscoelastic responses, making them suitable for applications requiring flexibility, durability, and environmental adaptability. This work provides critical insights into the structure–property relationships governing DN organogels and supports their potential in flexible electronics, biosensing, and soft material technologies.