Poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate), pHEMA, since its inception, has found many important applications. In its use in the manufacture of artificial ureters and contact lenses, the presence of small amounts of methacrylic acid, MAA, has been found to alter the swelling properties of the gel. The effect of the MAA in its acid form. pHEMA-H, versus in the ionized form, pHEMA-Na, on the swelling behavior in non-aqueous and mixed solvents has not been explored. Through an understanding of the effects of solvents on the gel, the microstructure of the material may be better understood. This study compares the cross-linked homopolymer, pHEMA with the 2. 5% MAA copolymer, pHEMA-H and its ionized form, pHEMA-Na in various solvents.