The present technology relates to present technology relates to materials, methods, processes and systems for clean water production—in particular, to unique hydrogels that can purify and decontaminate water, providing an effective and sustainable way to turn contaminated water into potable water. The present technology also contemplates methods of making such gels, methods of purifying water and providing purified water from contaminated water, and contemplates systems for accomplishing water purification in a rapid, cost-effective and environmentally sustainable way.