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The effect of cross-link density on the structure of Poly-(N-isopropylacrylamide) microgel particles prepared by emulsion polymerization was investigated by static and dynamic light scattering measurements. According to these measurements the gel particles cannot be considered as homogeneous spheres. The structure of the gel particles strongly depends on the degree of cross-linking. At high cross-link density the particles can be described with a Gaussian segment density distribution. With decreasing cross-link density the structure of the microgel particles tends toward that of a highly branched coil.

The new generation of magnetic elastomers represents a new type of composites, consisting of small (mainly nano and micron‐sized) magnetic particles dispersed in a highly elastic polymeric matrix. The combination of polymers with magnetic materials displays novel and often enhanced properties. Highly elastic magnetic composites are quite new and understanding of the behavior of these materials depending on the composition, external conditions, and the synthesis processes is still missing. Thus, the aim of this work is the study of fundamental principles governing the preparation of these materials as well as their structure and elastic properties. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

A novel polymer gel characterized by temperature and magnetic field sensitivity has been prepared. By incorporation of magnetite nanoparticles into poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) hydrogels, we are able to target and separate the gel beads by a magnetic field. It was established that the presence of magnetic material does not modify the temperature sensitivity of these gels.