Hydrogel

Hydrogel is a colloidal gel in which water is the dispersion medium. Hydrogels are superabsorbent (they can contain over 90% of water) natural or synthetic polymers.

Common uses for hydrogel are:

• In disposable diapers where they "capture" urine
• Contact lenses (silicone hydrogels)

Other, less common uses include:

• Breast implants
• Granules for holding soil moisture in arid areas
• Dressings for healing of burn or other hard-to-heal wounds