Abstract: This experiment aims to assist chemistry students in mastering the preparation of polymer hydrogels and the regulation of their swelling behavior by investigating stimuli-responsive hydrogels and their actuation mechanisms. The experiment is divided into three parts: First, students synthesize responsive and non-responsive hydrogels via free radical polymerization to grasp the fundamental principles of the polymerization process. Second, a two-step method is employed to create bilayer hydrogels, allowing students to explore the impact of layered structures on actuation behavior. Lastly, students adjust the environmental pH to control the swelling degree of the responsive hydrogels and examine the actuation behavior of the bilayer hydrogels. This experiment is rooted in cutting-edge research and encompasses both the preparation of polymer materials through basic polymerization techniques and the characterization of functional colloidal materials. It not only reinforces students’ understanding of colloid chemistry and enhances their experimental skills but also deepens their awareness of advancements in functional polymer material research, ultimately contributing to the overall quality of their training.

Key words: Polymer hydrogel, Actuator, Stimulus-response, Electrostatic interaction, Comprehensive chemical experiment