The viscometric parameters of chitosan=poly(vinyl alcohol) mixtures determined at 37 C are sensitive to polymer composition and pH changes, giving information about interpolymer complexes formation. Hybrid composites based on interpolymeric chitosan=poly(vinyl alcohol) complexes and the inorganic matrix of layered double hydroxides were synthesized in the presence of glutaraldehyde. The viscoelastic parameters showed a stronger network formation at pH ¼ 5.5 which is not broken down by the mechanical shear forces. The swelling kinetics of hybrid hydrogels is pH sensitive and the type of diffusion of small molecules into the network was established.

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