Dear Vandana Kumari, 6M KOH is really high enough to provoke fast hydrolysis of the amide side group, though the formed acid groups are in their dissociated form that protect (by negative charge repulsion) their neighbors from hydrolysis. The only thing that may slow down the hydrolysis kinetics is the cross-linking density which is a direct function of the concentration of MBA. Another source that may also contribute for long term to the deterioration of the mechanical properties is the chain degradation under such harsh conditions of alkalinity. Chain ends (initiator type), branching points and other factors are sites for breaking down the gel matrix. My Regards

Thankyou for the response. I can relate with your answer. As you work on this field, I have a follow up question on it. Hope to get some insights of yours on that too.

So, as you said the hydrolysis kinetics would depend upon the crosslinking density. If I say, the hydrogel has sufficient crosslinking density which may help for it to slow down the hydrolysis. But can you confirm that this particular molecule will degrade with time, let's say in some weeks or months? I have read papers where hydrogels crosslinked with this particular crosslinker are soaked for 24-48 hours under 6M KOH. But no one tells about its long term behaviours under strong alkaline environment. Will this loose it's mechanical stability completely and dissolved with time under the given condition?

My opinion yes. Crosslinks impose two main effects: hinder both diffusion and molecular arrangements to facilitate the hydrolysis reaction. Two days aren't sufficient long to see the alterations. Things starts at the surface, an errosion like. If you search for studies on that you will for sure find many. I remember decade ago I was dealing with similar issue. Best of luck in your work

Thanks alot for your help and best wishes.