Tuning Xerogel Morphology, Wetting Time, and Thickening Performance of Poly(Acrylic Acid)‐Based Hydrogels via Carboxylic Comonomers in Precipitation Polymerization

This study investigates the influence of carboxylic comonomers on the properties of poly(acrylic acid) (PAA)‐based hydrogels, enabling precise tuning for thickening applications. We hypothesize that incorporating comonomers such as itaconic acid, maleic acid, or maleic anhydride, which introduce additional functional groups and distinct p K a values, will significantly enhance control over xerogel morphology, zeta potential, and key performance metrics, including viscosity/swelling capacity, wetting time, flowability, and pH plateau. Through systematic variation of comonomer type and acidity, this work establishes a structure–property relationship that facilitates the rational design of PAA‐based xerogels with tailored functionalities. Rheological analyses demonstrate that comonomer selection impacts hydrogel strength and thixotropy, with maleic anhydride copolymers exhibiting the broadest linear viscoelastic region and superior recovery properties. These findings provide a framework for optimizing PAA‐based hydrogels for advanced thickening applications.