Abstract: Acrylate and methacrylate monoesters and diesters having the following formula (I) ##STR1## wherein R.sub.1, R.sub.2, R.sub.3 are as defined in the specification, are disclosed. These monomers are polymerizable into hydrogen polymers which are extremely hydrophilic. These hydrogel polymers are useful in the preparation of wound dressings. These polymers form complexes with polyvalent metal ions such as Ca, Mg, Mn and Cu, and possess macrophage stimulating activity in addition to the useful properties possessed by other acrylate and methacrylate hydrogel polymers.