degradable cross - linkers which are used to form polymer networks which degrade under aqueous conditions are described . these cross - linkers comprise a central polyacid , monomeric or oligomeric degradable regions and an optional water soluble regions . these monomers are preferably polymerized using free radical or condensation polymerization . degradation occurs at the ester linkages after cross - linking polymer filaments , and results in soluble polymer filaments which may be cleared from the body . preferred applications of these materials include , for example , controlled release of drugs and cosmetics , tissue engineering , wound healing , hazardous waste remediation , metal chelation , swellable devices for absorbing liquids and the prevention of surgical adhesions .