In which of the following are hydrogels used ?
Select the correct answer using the code given below :
- Controlled drug delivery in patients
- Mobile air-conditioning systems
- Preparation of industrial lubricants
1 only
1 and 2 only
2 and 3 only
1, 2 and 3
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This question was previously asked in
UPSC IAS – 2024
1. Controlled drug delivery in patients: Hydrogels are extensively used in drug delivery systems. Drugs can be incorporated into the hydrogel matrix and released in a controlled manner as the hydrogel swells or degrades, allowing for sustained or targeted drug release. This is a well-established application.
2. Mobile air-conditioning systems: Hydrogels can be used in certain types of cooling systems, particularly those involving moisture absorption and evaporation. For instance, they can be incorporated into evaporative cooling pads or desiccant systems for moisture removal, which is a component in some air conditioning or cooling technologies, including potentially mobile or portable systems exploring energy efficiency or alternative cooling methods. While not in traditional compressor-based ACs, they are used in specific advanced or niche cooling applications.
3. Preparation of industrial lubricants: Certain hydrogels exhibit excellent lubricating properties, especially in aqueous environments. They can reduce friction between surfaces and are explored or used as lubricants in various industrial applications, particularly in machinery and biomedical devices where traditional oil-based lubricants are unsuitable. This is an established application.
Based on the known uses of hydrogels, all three activities are valid applications.