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Ji H, Feng S, Yang M. Controlled Structural Relaxation of Aramid Nanofibers for Superstretchable Polymer Fibers with High Toughness and Heat Resistance. ACS NANO 2024; 18:18548-18559. [PMID: 38968387 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.4c04388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/07/2024]
Abstract
Polymer fibers that combine high toughness and heat resistance are hard to achieve, which, however, hold tremendous promise in demanding applications such as aerospace and military. This prohibitive design task exists due to the opposing property dependencies on chain dynamics because traditional heat-resistant materials with rigid molecular structures typically lack the mechanism of energy dissipation. Aramid nanofibers have received great attention as high-performance nanoscale building units due to their intriguing mechanical and thermal properties, but their distinct structural features are yet to be fully captured. We show that aramid nanofibers form nanoscale crimps during the removal of water, which primarily resides at the defect planes of pleated sheets, where the folding can occur. The precise control of such a structural relaxation can be realized by exerting axial loadings on hydrogel fibers, which allows the emergence of aramid fibers with varying angles of crimps. These crimped fibers integrate high toughness with heat resistance, thanks to the extensible nature of nanoscale crimps with rigid molecular structures of poly(p-phenylene terephthalamide), promising as a template for stable stretchable electronics. The tensile strength/modulus (392-944 MPa/11-29 GPa), stretchability (25-163%), and toughness (154-445 MJ/cm3) are achieved according to the degree of crimping. Intriguingly, a toughness of around 430 MJ/m3 can be maintained after calcination below the relaxation temperature (259 °C) for 50 h. Even after calcination at 300 °C for 10 h, a toughness of 310 MJ/m3 is kept, outperforming existing polymer materials. Our multiscale design strategy based on water-bearing aramid nanofibers provides a potent pathway for tackling the challenge for achieving conflicting property combinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- He Ji
- State Key Laboratory of Inorganic Synthesis and Preparative Chemistry, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Shouhua Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Inorganic Synthesis and Preparative Chemistry, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Ming Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Inorganic Synthesis and Preparative Chemistry, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China
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Thirumalai D, Santhamoorthy M, Kim SC, Lim HR. Conductive Polymer-Based Hydrogels for Wearable Electrochemical Biosensors. Gels 2024; 10:459. [PMID: 39057482 PMCID: PMC11275512 DOI: 10.3390/gels10070459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2024] [Revised: 07/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Hydrogels are gaining popularity for use in wearable electronics owing to their inherent biomimetic characteristics, flexible physicochemical properties, and excellent biocompatibility. Among various hydrogels, conductive polymer-based hydrogels (CP HGs) have emerged as excellent candidates for future wearable sensor designs. These hydrogels can attain desired properties through various tuning strategies extending from molecular design to microstructural configuration. However, significant challenges remain, such as the limited strain-sensing range, significant hysteresis of sensing signals, dehydration-induced functional failure, and surface/interfacial malfunction during manufacturing/processing. This review summarizes the recent developments in polymer-hydrogel-based wearable electrochemical biosensors over the past five years. Initially serving as carriers for biomolecules, polymer-hydrogel-based sensors have advanced to encompass a wider range of applications, including the development of non-enzymatic sensors facilitated by the integration of nanomaterials such as metals, metal oxides, and carbon-based materials. Beyond the numerous existing reports that primarily focus on biomolecule detection, we extend the scope to include the fabrication of nanocomposite conductive polymer hydrogels and explore their varied conductivity mechanisms in electrochemical sensing applications. This comprehensive evaluation is instrumental in determining the readiness of these polymer hydrogels for point-of-care translation and state-of-the-art applications in wearable electrochemical sensing technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dinakaran Thirumalai
- Digital Healthcare Research Center, Pukyong National University, Busan 48513, Republic of Korea;
| | - Madhappan Santhamoorthy
- School of Chemical Engineering, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 38544, Republic of Korea; (M.S.); (S.-C.K.)
| | - Seong-Cheol Kim
- School of Chemical Engineering, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 38544, Republic of Korea; (M.S.); (S.-C.K.)
| | - Hyo-Ryoung Lim
- Digital Healthcare Research Center, Pukyong National University, Busan 48513, Republic of Korea;
- Major of Human Bioconvergence, Division of Smart Healthcare, College of Information Technology and Convergence, Pukyong National University, Busan 48513, Republic of Korea
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Li Z, Guo H, Jin X. Fabrication of Uniform Anionic Polymeric Nanoplatelets as Building Blocks for Constructing Conductive Hydrogels with Enhancing Conductive and Mechanical Properties. Macromol Rapid Commun 2024; 45:e2400008. [PMID: 38659335 DOI: 10.1002/marc.202400008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Conductive hydrogels play a crucial role in advancing technologies like implantable bioelectronics and wearable electronic devices, owing to their favorable conductivity and appropriate mechanical properties. Here, a novel bottom-up approach is reported for crafting conductive nanocomposite hydrogels to achieve enhancing conductive and mechanical properties. In this approach, new poly(ɛ-caprolactone)-based block copolymers with sulfonic groups are first synthesized and self-assembled into uniform polyanionic nanoplatelets. Subsequently, these negatively charged nanoplatelets, with sulfonic groups on the surface, are employed as nanoadditives for the polymerization of 3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene (EDOT), resulting in poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS)/nanoplatelet complex with 3.8 times enhanced electrical conductivity compared with their counterparts prepared using block copolymers (BCPs). Blending the (PEDOT:PSS)/nanoplatelet complex with calcium alginate, nanocomposite hydrogels are successfully prepared. In comparison with hydrogels with (PEDOT:PSS)/BCP complexes prepared by a top-down method, the nanocomposite hydrogels are found to show twice as strong mechanical strength and 1.6 times higher conductivity. This work provides valuable insights into the bottom-up construction of conductive hydrogels for bioelectronics using well-controlled polymeric nanoplatelets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zehua Li
- School of Chemistry, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 102488, China
| | - Hui Guo
- School of Chemistry, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 102488, China
| | - Xuhui Jin
- School of Chemistry, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 102488, China
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Li H, Zhang W, Liao X, Xu L. Kirigami enabled reconfigurable three-dimensional evaporator arrays for dynamic solar tracking and high efficiency desalination. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eado1019. [PMID: 38924404 PMCID: PMC11204288 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.ado1019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
A kirigami-engineered composite hydrogel membrane is exploited for the construction of three dimensional (3D) solar-tracking evaporator arrays with outstanding evaporation performance and salt tolerance. The hybrid nanofiber network in the hydrogel membrane offers favorable water transport dynamics combined with excellent structural robustness, which are beneficial for the engineering of 3D dynamic structures. Periodic triangular cuts patterned into the membrane allow formation and reconfiguration of 3D conical arrays controlled by uniaxial stretching. With these structures, the tilt angles of the membrane surface are actively tuned to follow the solar trajectory, leading to a solar evaporation rate ~80% higher than that of static planar devices. Furthermore, the tapered 3D flaps and their micro-structured surfaces are capable of localized salt crystallization for prolonged solar desalination, enabling a stable evaporation rate of 3.4 kg m-2 hour-1 even in saturated brine. This versatile design may facilitate the implementation of solar evaporators for desalination and provide inspirations for other soft functional devices with dynamic 3D configurations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Li
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Weixin Zhang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
- Advanced Biomedical Instrumentation Centre Limited, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Xi Liao
- School of Construction Engineering, Shenzhen Polytechnic University, Shenzhen 518055, China
- Department of Architecture, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Lizhi Xu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
- Advanced Biomedical Instrumentation Centre Limited, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
- Materials Innovation Institute for Life Sciences and Energy (MILES), The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Institute of Research and Innovation (HKU-SIRI), Shenzhen 518057, China
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Kalulu M, Chilikwazi B, Hu J, Fu G. Soft Actuators and Actuation: Design, Synthesis, and Applications. Macromol Rapid Commun 2024:e2400282. [PMID: 38850266 DOI: 10.1002/marc.202400282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2024] [Revised: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
Soft actuators are one of the most promising technological advancements with potential solutions to diverse fields' day-to-day challenges. Soft actuators derived from hydrogel materials possess unique features such as flexibility, responsiveness to stimuli, and intricate deformations, making them ideal for soft robotics, artificial muscles, and biomedical applications. This review provides an overview of material composition and design techniques for hydrogel actuators, exploring 3D printing, photopolymerization, cross-linking, and microfabrication methods for improved actuation. It examines applications of hydrogel actuators in biomedical, soft robotics, bioinspired systems, microfluidics, lab-on-a-chip devices, and environmental, and energy systems. Finally, it discusses challenges, opportunities, advancements, and regulatory aspects related to hydrogel actuators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mulenga Kalulu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Southeast University, Jiangning, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 211189, P. R. China
- Department of Chemistry, School of Natural Sciences, The University of Zambia, Lusaka, 10101, Zambia
| | - Bright Chilikwazi
- Department of Chemistry, School of Natural Sciences, The University of Zambia, Lusaka, 10101, Zambia
| | - Jun Hu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Southeast University, Jiangning, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 211189, P. R. China
| | - Guodong Fu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Southeast University, Jiangning, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 211189, P. R. China
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Lee KK, Celt N, Ardoña HAM. Looking both ways: Electroactive biomaterials with bidirectional implications for dynamic cell-material crosstalk. BIOPHYSICS REVIEWS 2024; 5:021303. [PMID: 38736681 PMCID: PMC11087870 DOI: 10.1063/5.0181222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
Cells exist in natural, dynamic microenvironmental niches that facilitate biological responses to external physicochemical cues such as mechanical and electrical stimuli. For excitable cells, exogenous electrical cues are of interest due to their ability to stimulate or regulate cellular behavior via cascade signaling involving ion channels, gap junctions, and integrin receptors across the membrane. In recent years, conductive biomaterials have been demonstrated to influence or record these electrosensitive biological processes whereby the primary design criterion is to achieve seamless cell-material integration. As such, currently available bioelectronic materials are predominantly engineered toward achieving high-performing devices while maintaining the ability to recapitulate the local excitable cell/tissue microenvironment. However, such reports rarely address the dynamic signal coupling or exchange that occurs at the biotic-abiotic interface, as well as the distinction between the ionic transport involved in natural biological process and the electronic (or mixed ionic/electronic) conduction commonly responsible for bioelectronic systems. In this review, we highlight current literature reports that offer platforms capable of bidirectional signal exchange at the biotic-abiotic interface with excitable cell types, along with the design criteria for such biomaterials. Furthermore, insights on current materials not yet explored for biointerfacing or bioelectronics that have potential for bidirectional applications are also provided. Finally, we offer perspectives aimed at bringing attention to the coupling of the signals delivered by synthetic material to natural biological conduction mechanisms, areas of improvement regarding characterizing biotic-abiotic crosstalk, as well as the dynamic nature of this exchange, to be taken into consideration for material/device design consideration for next-generation bioelectronic systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn Kwangja Lee
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Irvine, California 92697, USA
| | - Natalie Celt
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, California 92697, USA
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Sun Y, Cui J, Feng S, Cui J, Guo Y, Liang C, Gao W, Lu Z, Liu F, Zhang B. Projection Stereolithography 3D Printing High-Conductive Hydrogel for Flexible Passive Wireless Sensing. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2400103. [PMID: 38573809 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202400103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
Hydrogel-based electronics have inherent similarities to biological tissues and hold potential for wearable applications. However, low conductivity, poor stretchability, nonpersonalizability, and uncontrollable dehydration during use limit their further development. In this study, projection stereolithography 3D printing high-conductive hydrogel for flexible passive wireless sensing is reported. The prepared photocurable silver-based hydrogel is rapidly planarized into antenna shapes on substrates using surface projection stereolithography. After partial dehydration, silver flakes within the circuits form sufficient conductive pathways to achieve high conductivity (387 S cm-1). By sealing the circuits to prevent further dehydration, the resistance remains stable when tensile strain is less than 100% for at least 30 days. Besides, the sealing materials provide versatile functionalities, such as stretchability and shape memory property. Customized flexible radio frequency identification tags are fabricated by integrating with commercial chips to complete the accurate recognition of eye movement, realizing passive wireless sensing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongding Sun
- Frontiers Science Center for Flexible Electronics (FSCFE), Xi'an Institute of Flexible Electronics, Northwestern Polytechnical University, 127 West Youyi Road, Xi'an, 710072, China
| | - Jin Cui
- School of Information and Science Technology, Northwest University, 1 Xuefu Street, Xi'an, 710127, China
| | - Shiwei Feng
- Frontiers Science Center for Flexible Electronics (FSCFE), Xi'an Institute of Flexible Electronics, Northwestern Polytechnical University, 127 West Youyi Road, Xi'an, 710072, China
| | - Jingjing Cui
- Frontiers Science Center for Flexible Electronics (FSCFE), Xi'an Institute of Flexible Electronics, Northwestern Polytechnical University, 127 West Youyi Road, Xi'an, 710072, China
| | - Yunlong Guo
- Frontiers Science Center for Flexible Electronics (FSCFE), Xi'an Institute of Flexible Electronics, Northwestern Polytechnical University, 127 West Youyi Road, Xi'an, 710072, China
| | - Chen Liang
- Frontiers Science Center for Flexible Electronics (FSCFE), Xi'an Institute of Flexible Electronics, Northwestern Polytechnical University, 127 West Youyi Road, Xi'an, 710072, China
| | - Weizi Gao
- Frontiers Science Center for Flexible Electronics (FSCFE), Xi'an Institute of Flexible Electronics, Northwestern Polytechnical University, 127 West Youyi Road, Xi'an, 710072, China
| | - Zhe Lu
- Frontiers Science Center for Flexible Electronics (FSCFE), Xi'an Institute of Flexible Electronics, Northwestern Polytechnical University, 127 West Youyi Road, Xi'an, 710072, China
| | - Fukang Liu
- Frontiers Science Center for Flexible Electronics (FSCFE), Xi'an Institute of Flexible Electronics, Northwestern Polytechnical University, 127 West Youyi Road, Xi'an, 710072, China
| | - Biao Zhang
- Frontiers Science Center for Flexible Electronics (FSCFE), Xi'an Institute of Flexible Electronics, Northwestern Polytechnical University, 127 West Youyi Road, Xi'an, 710072, China
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8
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Du Y, Kim JH, Kong H, Li AA, Jin ML, Kim DH, Wang Y. Biocompatible Electronic Skins for Cardiovascular Health Monitoring. Adv Healthc Mater 2024; 13:e2303461. [PMID: 38569196 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202303461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases represent a significant threat to the overall well-being of the global population. Continuous monitoring of vital signs related to cardiovascular health is essential for improving daily health management. Currently, there has been remarkable proliferation of technology focused on collecting data related to cardiovascular diseases through daily electronic skin monitoring. However, concerns have arisen regarding potential skin irritation and inflammation due to the necessity for prolonged wear of wearable devices. To ensure comfortable and uninterrupted cardiovascular health monitoring, the concept of biocompatible electronic skin has gained substantial attention. In this review, biocompatible electronic skins for cardiovascular health monitoring are comprehensively summarized and discussed. The recent achievements of biocompatible electronic skin in cardiovascular health monitoring are introduced. Their working principles, fabrication processes, and performances in sensing technologies, materials, and integration systems are highlighted, and comparisons are made with other electronic skins used for cardiovascular monitoring. In addition, the significance of integrating sensing systems and the updating wireless communication for the development of the smart medical field is explored. Finally, the opportunities and challenges for wearable electronic skin are also examined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yucong Du
- Institute of Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
- Institute for Future, Shandong Key Laboratory of Industrial Control Technology, School of Automation, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Ji Hong Kim
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul, 04763, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Nano Science and Technology, Hanyang University, Seoul, 04763, Republic of Korea
- Clean-Energy Research Institute, Hanyang University, Seoul, 04763, Republic of Korea
| | - Hui Kong
- Institute for Future, Shandong Key Laboratory of Industrial Control Technology, School of Automation, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Anne Ailina Li
- Institute for Future, Shandong Key Laboratory of Industrial Control Technology, School of Automation, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Ming Liang Jin
- Institute for Future, Shandong Key Laboratory of Industrial Control Technology, School of Automation, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Do Hwan Kim
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul, 04763, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Nano Science and Technology, Hanyang University, Seoul, 04763, Republic of Korea
- Clean-Energy Research Institute, Hanyang University, Seoul, 04763, Republic of Korea
| | - Yin Wang
- Institute of Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
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Zhao J, Feng J, Jiang Y, Wang Z, Zhang J, Mei S, Yang G, Gu Z, Tan C, Qin Y, Li Z. Skin-Integrated Electrodes Based on Room-Temperature Curable, Highly Conductive Silver/Polydimethylsiloxane Composites. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2309470. [PMID: 38148306 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202309470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
The quality of electrophysiological (EP) signals heavily relies on the electrode's contact with the skin. However, motion or exposure to water can easily destabilize this connection. In contrast to traditional methods of attaching electrodes to the skin surface, this study introduces a skin-integration strategy inspired by the skin's intergrown structure. A highly conductive and room-temperature curable composite composed of silver microflakes and polydimethylsiloxane (Ag/PDMS) is applied to the skin. Before curing, the PDMS oil partially diffuse into the stratum corneum (SC) layer of the skin. Upon curing, the composite solidifies into an electrode that seamlessly integrated with the skin, resembling a natural extension. This skin-integration strategy offers several advantages. It minimizes motion artifacts resulting from relative electrode-skin displacement, significantly reduces interface impedance (67% of commercial Ag/AgCl gel electrodes at 100 Hz) and withstands water flushes due to its hydrophobic nature. These advantages pave the way for promising advancements in EP signal recording, particularly during motion and underwater conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Zhao
- Department of Materials Science, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Jiuqing Feng
- School of Information Science and Technology, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Yizhou Jiang
- School of Information Science and Technology, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Zekai Wang
- Department of Materials Science, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Jialong Zhang
- School of Information Science and Technology, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Shuxing Mei
- Department of Materials Science, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Guoqing Yang
- School of Microelectronics and State Key Laboratory of Integrated Chip and Systems, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Zongquan Gu
- School of Microelectronics and State Key Laboratory of Integrated Chip and Systems, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Cehui Tan
- School of Information Science and Technology, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Yajie Qin
- School of Information Science and Technology, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Zhuo Li
- Department of Materials Science, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China
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Wang Y, Wang Y, Xue Y, Li X, Geng Y, Zhao J, Ge L, He H, Li F, Liu X. Portable and Flexible Hydrogel Sensor for On-Site Atrazine Assay on Agricultural Products. Anal Chem 2024; 96:7772-7779. [PMID: 38698542 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.4c01579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
There is growing attention focused toward the problems of ecological sustainability and food safety raised from the abuse of herbicides, which underscores the need for the development of a portable and reliable sensor for simple, rapid, and user-friendly on-site analysis of herbicide residues. Herein, a novel multifunctional hydrogel composite is explored to serve as a portable and flexible sensor for the facile and efficient analysis of atrazine (ATZ) residues. The hydrogel electrode is fabricated by doping graphite-phase carbon nitride (g-C3N4) into the aramid nanofiber reinforced poly(vinyl alcohol) hydrogel via a simple solution-casting procedure. Benefiting from the excellent electroactivity and large specific surface area of the solid nanoscale component, the prepared hydrogel sensor is capable of simple, rapid, and sensitive detection of ATZ with a detection limit down to 0.002 ng/mL and per test time less than 1 min. After combination with a smartphone-controlled portable electrochemical analyzer, the flexible sensor exhibited satisfactory analytical performance for the ATZ assay. We further demonstrated the applications of the sensor in the evaluation of the ATZ residues in real water and soil samples as well as the user-friendly on-site point-of-need detection of ATZ residues on various agricultural products. We envision that this flexible and portable sensor will open a new avenue on the development of next-generation analytical tools for herbicide monitoring in the environment and agricultural products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuying Wang
- College of Plant Health & Medicine, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, P. R. China
| | - Yue Wang
- College of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, P. R. China
| | - Yang Xue
- College of Plant Health & Medicine, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, P. R. China
| | - Xiao Li
- College of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, P. R. China
| | - Yue Geng
- College of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, P. R. China
| | - Jiahui Zhao
- College of Plant Health & Medicine, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, P. R. China
| | - Lei Ge
- College of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Energy Materials Chemistry (Ministry of Education), Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, P. R. China
| | - Huimin He
- Institute for Frontier Science, Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Nanjing 210016, P. R. China
| | - Feng Li
- College of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, P. R. China
| | - Xiaojuan Liu
- College of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, P. R. China
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Yao ZF, Kuang Y, Wu HT, Lundqvist E, Fu X, Celt N, Pei J, Yee A, Ardoña HAM. Selective Induction of Molecular Assembly to Tissue-Level Anisotropy on Peptide-Based Optoelectronic Cardiac Biointerfaces. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2312231. [PMID: 38335948 PMCID: PMC11126358 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202312231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
The conduction efficiency of ions in excitable tissues and of charged species in organic conjugated materials both benefit from having ordered domains and anisotropic pathways. In this study, a photocurrent-generating cardiac biointerface is presented, particularly for investigating the sensitivity of cardiomyocytes to geometrically comply to biomacromolecular cues differentially assembled on a conductive nanogrooved substrate. Through a polymeric surface-templated approach, photoconductive substrates with symmetric peptide-quaterthiophene (4T)-peptide units assembled as 1D nanostructures on nanoimprinted polyalkylthiophene (P3HT) surface are developed. The 4T-based peptides studied here can form 1D nanostructures on prepatterned polyalkylthiophene substrates, as directed by hydrogen bonding, aromatic interactions between 4T and P3HT, and physical confinement on the nanogrooves. It is observed that smaller 4T-peptide units that can achieve a higher degree of assembly order within the polymeric templates serve as a more efficient driver of cardiac cytoskeletal anisotropy than merely presenting aligned -RGD bioadhesive epitopes on a nanotopographic surface. These results unravel some insights on how cardiomyocytes perceive submicrometer dimensionality, local molecular order, and characteristics of surface cues in their immediate environment. Overall, the work offers a cardiac patterning platform that presents the possibility of a gene modification-free cardiac photostimulation approach while controlling the conduction directionality of the biotic and abiotic components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ze-Fan Yao
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Samueli School of Engineering, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
- Department of Chemistry, School of Physical Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Yuyao Kuang
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Samueli School of Engineering, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Hao-Tian Wu
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences (BNLMS), Key Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Physics of Ministry of Education, Center of Soft Matter Science and Engineering, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Emil Lundqvist
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Samueli School of Engineering, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Xin Fu
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Samueli School of Engineering, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Natalie Celt
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Samueli School of Engineering, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Jian Pei
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences (BNLMS), Key Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Physics of Ministry of Education, Center of Soft Matter Science and Engineering, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Albert Yee
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Samueli School of Engineering, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Herdeline Ann M. Ardoña
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Samueli School of Engineering, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
- Department of Chemistry, School of Physical Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Samueli School of Engineering, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
- Sue & Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
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Tang G, Li Z, Ding C, Zhao J, Xing X, Sun Y, Qiu X, Wang L. A cigarette filter-derived biomimetic cardiac niche for myocardial infarction repair. Bioact Mater 2024; 35:362-381. [PMID: 38379697 PMCID: PMC10876615 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2024.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Cell implantation offers an appealing avenue for heart repair after myocardial infarction (MI). Nevertheless, the implanted cells are subjected to the aberrant myocardial niche, which inhibits cell survival and maturation, posing significant challenges to the ultimate therapeutic outcome. The functional cardiac patches (CPs) have been proved to construct an elastic conductive, antioxidative, and angiogenic microenvironment for rectifying the aberrant microenvironment of the infarcted myocardium. More importantly, inducing implanted cardiomyocytes (CMs) adapted to the anisotropic arrangement of myocardial tissue by bioengineered structural cues within CPs are more conducive to MI repair. Herein, a functional Cig/(TA-Cu) CP served as biomimetic cardiac niche was fabricated based on structural anisotropic cigarette filter by modifying with tannic acid (TA)-chelated Cu2+ (TA-Cu complex) via a green method. This CP possessed microstructural anisotropy, electrical conductivity and mechanical properties similar to natural myocardium, which could promote elongation, orientation, maturation, and functionalization of CMs. Besides, the Cig/(TA-Cu) CP could efficiently scavenge reactive oxygen species, reduce CM apoptosis, ultimately facilitating myocardial electrical integration, promoting vascular regeneration and improving cardiac function. Together, our study introduces a functional CP that integrates multimodal cues to create a biomimetic cardiac niche and provides an effective strategy for cardiac repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guofeng Tang
- Biomaterials Research Center, School of Biomedical Engineering, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, PR China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Construction and Detection in Tissue Engineering, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, PR China
| | - Zhentao Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Construction and Detection in Tissue Engineering, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, PR China
- Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, The Tenth Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University (Dongguan People's Hospital), Dongguan, Guangdong, 523058, PR China
| | - Chengbin Ding
- Biomaterials Research Center, School of Biomedical Engineering, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, PR China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Construction and Detection in Tissue Engineering, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, PR China
| | - Jiang Zhao
- Biomaterials Research Center, School of Biomedical Engineering, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, PR China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Construction and Detection in Tissue Engineering, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, PR China
| | - Xianglong Xing
- Biomaterials Research Center, School of Biomedical Engineering, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, PR China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Construction and Detection in Tissue Engineering, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, PR China
| | - Yan Sun
- Biomaterials Research Center, School of Biomedical Engineering, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, PR China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Construction and Detection in Tissue Engineering, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, PR China
| | - Xiaozhong Qiu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Construction and Detection in Tissue Engineering, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, PR China
- School of Basic Medical Science, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, PR China
| | - Leyu Wang
- Biomaterials Research Center, School of Biomedical Engineering, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, PR China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Construction and Detection in Tissue Engineering, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, PR China
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13
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Wang S, Wang Z, Yang W, Xu Z, Dai H, He F, Yan S, Shi X. In Situ-Sprayed Bioinspired Adhesive Conductive Hydrogels for Cavernous Nerve Repair. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2311264. [PMID: 38330187 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202311264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Cavernous nerve injury (CNI), resulting in erectile dysfunction (ED), poses a significant threat to the quality of life for men. Strategies utilizing conductive hydrogels have demonstrated promising results for the treatment of peripheral nerves with a large diameter (>2 mm). However, integrating convenient minimally invasive operation, antiswelling and immunomodulatory conductive hydrogels for treating small-diameter injured cavernous nerves remains a great challenge. Here, a sprayable adhesive conductive hydrogel (GACM) composed of gelatin, adenine, carbon nanotubes, and mesaconate designed for cavernous nerve repair is developed. Multiple hydrogen bonds provide GACM with excellent adhesive and antiswelling properties, enabling it to establish a conformal electrical bridge with the damaged nerve and aiding in the regeneration process. Additionally, mesaconate-loaded GACM suppresses the release of inflammatory factors by macrophages and promotes the migration and proliferation of Schwann cells. In vivo tests demonstrate that the GACM hydrogel repairs the cavernous nerve and restores erectile function and fertility. Furthermore, the feasibility of sprayable GACM in minimally invasive robotic surgery in beagles is validated. Given the benefits of therapeutic effectiveness and clinical convenience, the research suggests a promising future for sprayable GACM materials as advanced solutions for minimally invasive nerve repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuting Wang
- National Engineering Research Centre for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510640, China
| | - Zhenqing Wang
- Department of Urology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250021, China
| | - Wei Yang
- National Engineering Research Centre for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Zhen Xu
- Department of Urology, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China
| | - Hao Dai
- National Engineering Research Centre for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510640, China
| | - Fupo He
- School of Electromechanical Engineering, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Shengtao Yan
- Department of Emergency, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Xuetao Shi
- National Engineering Research Centre for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510640, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering of Guangdong Province, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
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14
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Farrukh A, Nayab S. Shape Memory Hydrogels for Biomedical Applications. Gels 2024; 10:270. [PMID: 38667689 PMCID: PMC11049586 DOI: 10.3390/gels10040270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The ability of shape memory polymers to change shape upon external stimulation makes them exceedingly useful in various areas, from biomedical engineering to soft robotics. Especially, shape memory hydrogels (SMHs) are well-suited for biomedical applications due to their inherent biocompatibility, excellent shape morphing performance, tunable physiochemical properties, and responsiveness to a wide range of stimuli (e.g., thermal, chemical, electrical, light). This review provides an overview of the unique features of smart SMHs from their fundamental working mechanisms to types of SMHs classified on the basis of applied stimuli and highlights notable clinical applications. Moreover, the potential of SMHs for surgical, biomedical, and tissue engineering applications is discussed. Finally, this review summarizes the current challenges in synthesizing and fabricating reconfigurable hydrogel-based interfaces and outlines future directions for their potential in personalized medicine and clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleeza Farrukh
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Sana Nayab
- Institute of Chemistry, Quaid-i-Azam Campus, University of the Punjab, Lahore 54590, Pakistan
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15
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Liu Q, Dong X, Qi H, Zhang H, Li T, Zhao Y, Li G, Zhai W. 3D printable strong and tough composite organo-hydrogels inspired by natural hierarchical composite design principles. Nat Commun 2024; 15:3237. [PMID: 38622154 PMCID: PMC11018840 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-47597-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Fabrication of composite hydrogels can effectively enhance the mechanical and functional properties of conventional hydrogels. While ceramic reinforcement is common in many hard biological tissues, ceramic-reinforced hydrogels lack a similar natural prototype for bioinspiration. This raises a key question: How can we still attain bioinspired mechanical mechanisms in composite hydrogels without mimicking a specific composition and structure? Abstracting the hierarchical composite design principles of natural materials, this study proposes a hierarchical fabrication strategy for ceramic-reinforced organo-hydrogels, featuring (1) aligned ceramic platelets through direct-ink-write printing, (2) poly(vinyl alcohol) organo-hydrogel matrix reinforced by solution substitution, and (3) silane-treated platelet-matrix interfaces. Unit filaments are further printed into a selection of bioinspired macro-architectures, leading to high stiffness, strength, and toughness (fracture energy up to 31.1 kJ/m2), achieved through synergistic multi-scale energy dissipation. The materials also exhibit wide operation tolerance and electrical conductivity for flexible electronics in mechanically demanding conditions. Hence, this study demonstrates a model strategy that extends the fundamental design principles of natural materials to fabricate composite hydrogels with synergistic mechanical and functional enhancement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quyang Liu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, National University of Singapore, 9 Engineering Drive 1, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Xinyu Dong
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, National University of Singapore, 9 Engineering Drive 1, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Haobo Qi
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, National University of Singapore, 9 Engineering Drive 1, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Haoqi Zhang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, National University of Singapore, 9 Engineering Drive 1, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Tian Li
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, National University of Singapore, 9 Engineering Drive 1, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yijing Zhao
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, National University of Singapore, 9 Engineering Drive 1, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Guanjin Li
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, National University of Singapore, 9 Engineering Drive 1, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Wei Zhai
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, National University of Singapore, 9 Engineering Drive 1, Singapore, Singapore.
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Shin Y, Lee HS, Hong YJ, Sunwoo SH, Park OK, Choi SH, Kim DH, Lee S. Low-impedance tissue-device interface using homogeneously conductive hydrogels chemically bonded to stretchable bioelectronics. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eadi7724. [PMID: 38507496 PMCID: PMC10954228 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adi7724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Stretchable bioelectronics has notably contributed to the advancement of continuous health monitoring and point-of-care type health care. However, microscale nonconformal contact and locally dehydrated interface limit performance, especially in dynamic environments. Therefore, hydrogels can be a promising interfacial material for the stretchable bioelectronics due to their unique advantages including tissue-like softness, water-rich property, and biocompatibility. However, there are still practical challenges in terms of their electrical performance, material homogeneity, and monolithic integration with stretchable devices. Here, we report the synthesis of a homogeneously conductive polyacrylamide hydrogel with an exceptionally low impedance (~21 ohms) and a reasonably high conductivity (~24 S/cm) by incorporating polyaniline-decorated poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene:polystyrene). We also establish robust adhesion (interfacial toughness: ~296.7 J/m2) and reliable integration between the conductive hydrogel and the stretchable device through on-device polymerization as well as covalent and hydrogen bonding. These strategies enable the fabrication of a stretchable multichannel sensor array for the high-quality on-skin impedance and pH measurements under in vitro and in vivo circumstances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoonsoo Shin
- Center for Nanoparticle Research, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
- School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Institute of Chemical Processes, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Su Lee
- Center for Nanoparticle Research, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
- School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Institute of Chemical Processes, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Yongseok Joseph Hong
- Center for Nanoparticle Research, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
- School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Institute of Chemical Processes, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Hyuk Sunwoo
- Center for Nanoparticle Research, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
- School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Institute of Chemical Processes, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Ok Kyu Park
- Center for Nanoparticle Research, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Sueng Hong Choi
- Center for Nanoparticle Research, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Dae-Hyeong Kim
- Center for Nanoparticle Research, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
- School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Institute of Chemical Processes, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Sangkyu Lee
- Center for Nanoparticle Research, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
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17
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Yang Z, You Y, Liu X, Wan Q, Xu Z, Shuai Y, Wang J, Guo T, Hu J, Lv J, Zhang M, Yang M, Mao C, Yang S. Injectable Bombyx mori (B. mori) silk fibroin/MXene conductive hydrogel for electrically stimulating neural stem cells into neurons for treating brain damage. J Nanobiotechnology 2024; 22:111. [PMID: 38486273 PMCID: PMC10941401 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-024-02359-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Brain damage is a common tissue damage caused by trauma or diseases, which can be life-threatening. Stem cell implantation is an emerging strategy treating brain damage. The stem cell is commonly embedded in a matrix material for implantation, which protects stem cell and induces cell differentiation. Cell differentiation induction by this material is decisive in the effectiveness of this treatment strategy. In this work, we present an injectable fibroin/MXene conductive hydrogel as stem cell carrier, which further enables in-vivo electrical stimulation upon stem cells implanted into damaged brain tissue. Cell differentiation characterization of stem cell showed high effectiveness of electrical stimulation in this system, which is comparable to pure conductive membrane. Axon growth density of the newly differentiated neurons increased by 290% and axon length by 320%. In addition, unfavored astrocyte differentiation is minimized. The therapeutic effect of this system is proved through traumatic brain injury model on rats. Combined with in vivo electrical stimulation, cavities formation is reduced after traumatic brain injury, and rat motor function recovery is significantly promoted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhangze Yang
- Institute of Applied Bioresource Research, College of Animal Science, Key Laboratory of Silkworm and Bee Resource Utilization and Innovation of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310058, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yuxin You
- Institute of Biotechnology, College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiangyu Liu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Quan Wan
- Institute of Applied Bioresource Research, College of Animal Science, Key Laboratory of Silkworm and Bee Resource Utilization and Innovation of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310058, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zongpu Xu
- Institute of Applied Bioresource Research, College of Animal Science, Key Laboratory of Silkworm and Bee Resource Utilization and Innovation of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310058, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yajun Shuai
- Institute of Applied Bioresource Research, College of Animal Science, Key Laboratory of Silkworm and Bee Resource Utilization and Innovation of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310058, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jie Wang
- Institute of Applied Bioresource Research, College of Animal Science, Key Laboratory of Silkworm and Bee Resource Utilization and Innovation of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310058, Zhejiang, China
| | - Tingbiao Guo
- Centre for Optical and Electromagnetic Research National Engineering Research Center for Optical Instruments Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Jiaqi Hu
- Institute of Applied Bioresource Research, College of Animal Science, Key Laboratory of Silkworm and Bee Resource Utilization and Innovation of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310058, Zhejiang, China
| | - Junhui Lv
- Department of Neurosurgery, School of Medicine, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, China
| | - Meng Zhang
- Institute of Applied Bioresource Research, College of Animal Science, Key Laboratory of Silkworm and Bee Resource Utilization and Innovation of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310058, Zhejiang, China
| | - Mingying Yang
- Institute of Applied Bioresource Research, College of Animal Science, Key Laboratory of Silkworm and Bee Resource Utilization and Innovation of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310058, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Chuanbin Mao
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, Zhejiang, China.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, Hong Kong SAR.
| | - Shuxu Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, School of Medicine, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, China.
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18
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Wu Y, Zhang Y, Liao Z, Wen J, Zhang H, Wu H, Liu Z, Shi Y, Song P, Tang L, Xue H, Gao J. Water vapor assisted aramid nanofiber reinforcement for strong, tough and ionically conductive organohydrogels as high-performance strain sensors. MATERIALS HORIZONS 2024; 11:1272-1282. [PMID: 38165275 DOI: 10.1039/d3mh01560b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Conductive organohydrogels have gained increasing attention in wearable sensors, flexible batteries, and soft robots due to their exceptional environment adaptability and controllable conductivity. However, it is still difficult for conductive organohydrogels to achieve simultaneous improvement in mechanical and electrical properties. Here, we propose a novel "water vapor assisted aramid nanofiber (ANF) reinforcement" strategy to prepare robust and ionically conductive organohydrogels. Water vapor diffusion can induce the pre-gelation of the polymer solution and ensure the uniform dispersion of ANFs in organohydrogels. ANF reinforced organohydrogels have remarkable mechanical properties with a tensile strength, stretchability and toughness of up to 1.88 ± 0.04 MPa, 633 ± 30%, and 6.75 ± 0.38 MJ m-3, respectively. Furthermore, the organohydrogels exhibit great crack propagation resistance with the fracture energy and fatigue threshold as high as 3793 ± 167 J m-2 and ∼328 J m-2, respectively. As strain sensors, the conductive organohydrogel demonstrates a short response time of 112 ms, a large working strain and superior cycling stability (1200 cycles at 40% strain), enabling effective monitoring of a wide range of complex human motions. This study provides a new yet effective design strategy for high performance and multi-functional nanofiller reinforced organohydrogels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongchuan Wu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yangzhou University, No 180, Road Siwangting, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, 225002, China.
| | - Ya Zhang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yangzhou University, No 180, Road Siwangting, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, 225002, China.
| | - Zimin Liao
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yangzhou University, No 180, Road Siwangting, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, 225002, China.
| | - Jing Wen
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yangzhou University, No 180, Road Siwangting, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, 225002, China.
| | - Hechuan Zhang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yangzhou University, No 180, Road Siwangting, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, 225002, China.
| | - Haidi Wu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yangzhou University, No 180, Road Siwangting, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, 225002, China.
| | - Zhanqi Liu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yangzhou University, No 180, Road Siwangting, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, 225002, China.
| | - Yongqian Shi
- College of Environment and Safety Engineering, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350116, China
| | - Pingan Song
- Centre for Future Materials, University of Southern Queensland, Springfield Campus, QLD 4300, Australia
| | - Longcheng Tang
- College of Material, Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Key Laboratory of Organosilicon Chemistry and Material Technology of MoE, Key Laboratory of Silicone Materials Technology of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, China
| | - Huaiguo Xue
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yangzhou University, No 180, Road Siwangting, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, 225002, China.
| | - Jiefeng Gao
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yangzhou University, No 180, Road Siwangting, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, 225002, China.
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19
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Xu Z, Chen Y, Cao Y, Xue B. Tough Hydrogels with Different Toughening Mechanisms and Applications. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2675. [PMID: 38473922 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Load-bearing biological tissues, such as cartilage and muscles, exhibit several crucial properties, including high elasticity, strength, and recoverability. These characteristics enable these tissues to endure significant mechanical stresses and swiftly recover after deformation, contributing to their exceptional durability and functionality. In contrast, while hydrogels are highly biocompatible and hold promise as synthetic biomaterials, their inherent network structure often limits their ability to simultaneously possess a diverse range of superior mechanical properties. As a result, the applications of hydrogels are significantly constrained. This article delves into the design mechanisms and mechanical properties of various tough hydrogels and investigates their applications in tissue engineering, flexible electronics, and other fields. The objective is to provide insights into the fabrication and application of hydrogels with combined high strength, stretchability, toughness, and fast recovery as well as their future development directions and challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengyu Xu
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Microstructures, National Laboratory of Solid State Microstructure, Department of Physics, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
| | - Yanru Chen
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Microstructures, National Laboratory of Solid State Microstructure, Department of Physics, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
| | - Yi Cao
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Microstructures, National Laboratory of Solid State Microstructure, Department of Physics, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory, Jinan 250000, China
| | - Bin Xue
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Microstructures, National Laboratory of Solid State Microstructure, Department of Physics, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory, Jinan 250000, China
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20
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Zhao X, Jiang J, Liu Z, Liu Z, Li G. Thermal and Near-Infrared Light-Responsive Hydrogel Actuators with Spatiotemporally Developed Polypyrrole Patterns. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:9286-9292. [PMID: 38323411 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c17885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Conjugated polymers are commonly adopted to develop electro- and photoresponsive materials due to their superior electronic conductivity and phototothermal convertibility. However, they are usually homogeneously polymerized within the network, which makes their functionalities challenging to spatiotemporally modulate. In this work, we report a convenient and extensible method to develop polypyrrole patterns in a thermally responsive sodium alginate/poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) hydrogel. The polypyrrole pattern is developed by spatial photoreduction of Fe3+ ions into Fe2+ ions and subsequently initiating oxidation polymerization of pyrrole by the residual Fe3+ ions. During this process, carboxylate groups coordinated with Fe3+ ions are also sacrificed in a gradient manner along the thickness direction, and the resulting concentration gradients of the carboxylate group endow the hydrogel with thermal-responsive actuation. The polymerized polypyrrole also renders the hydrogels' prominent temperature-rising behaviors upon NIR light irradiation. By designing the PPy pattern, hydrogels can exhibit versatile actuating behaviors and execute mechanical works such as lifting objects. This method is convenient and can be extended to develop other conjugated polymers in hydrogel systems for versatile applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyu Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Syngas Conversion of Shaanxi Province, Key Laboratory of Applied Surface and Colloid Chemistry, Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province 710062, China
| | - Jinqiang Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Syngas Conversion of Shaanxi Province, Key Laboratory of Applied Surface and Colloid Chemistry, Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province 710062, China
| | - Zhongwen Liu
- Key Laboratory of Syngas Conversion of Shaanxi Province, Key Laboratory of Applied Surface and Colloid Chemistry, Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province 710062, China
| | - Zhaotie Liu
- Key Laboratory of Syngas Conversion of Shaanxi Province, Key Laboratory of Applied Surface and Colloid Chemistry, Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province 710062, China
| | - Guo Li
- Key Laboratory of Syngas Conversion of Shaanxi Province, Key Laboratory of Applied Surface and Colloid Chemistry, Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province 710062, China
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21
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Wan L, Xu N, Wu X, Liu M, Liu Y, Zhao J, Zhang T, Zhao J, Zhou Y, Xie Q, Hu Y, Jiang X, Tang C, Quan Y, Shafique S, Tian Y, Zhang X, Zhang Y, Zhou K, Cao J, Jian J, Wang Y. Enhanced heterogeneous interface to construct intelligent conductive hydrogel gas sensor for individualized treatment of infected wounds. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 258:128520. [PMID: 38040150 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.128520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
In this study, we developed an enhanced heterogeneous interface intelligent conductive hydrogel NH3 sensor for individualized treatment of infected wounds. The sensor achieved monitoring, self-diagnosis, and adaptive gear adjustment functions. The PPY@PDA/PANI(3/6) sensor had a minimum NH3 detection concentration of 50 ppb and a response value of 2.94 %. It also had a theoretical detection limit of 49 ppt for infected wound gas. The sensor exhibited a fast response time of 23.2 s and a recovery time of 42.9 s. Tobramycin (TOB) was encapsulated in a self-healing QCS/OD hydrogel formed by quaternized chitosan (QCS) and oxidized dextran (OD), followed by the addition of polydopamine-coated polypyrrole nanowires (PPY@PDA) and polyaniline (PANI) to prepare electrically conductive drug-loaded PPY@PDA/PANI hydrogels. The drug-loaded PPY@PDA/PANI hydrogel was combined with a PANI/PVDF membrane to form an enhanced heterogeneous interfacial PPY@PDA/PANI/PVDF-based sensor, which could adaptively learn the individual wound ammonia response and adjust the speed of drug release from the PPY@PDA/PANI hydrogel with electrical stimulation. Drug release and animal studies demonstrated the efficacy of the PPY@PDA/PANI hydrogel in inhibiting infection and accelerating wound healing. In conclusion, the gas-sensitive conductive hydrogel sensing system is expected to enable intelligent drug delivery and provide personalized treatment for complex wound management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linguo Wan
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, China
| | - Nanjian Xu
- Department of Spine Surgery, Ningbo Sixth Hospital, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315040, China.
| | - Xiaodong Wu
- Department of Anesthesiology, the First Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, China
| | - Mujie Liu
- Medical College, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315000, China
| | - Yong Liu
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, China
| | - Jinglong Zhao
- Zhejiang Provincial Engineering Research Center of Energy Optoelectronic Materials and Devices, Ningbo Institute of Material Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315201, China
| | - Ting Zhang
- Zhejiang Provincial Engineering Research Center of Energy Optoelectronic Materials and Devices, Ningbo Institute of Material Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315201, China
| | - Jingwei Zhao
- Zhejiang Provincial Engineering Research Center of Energy Optoelectronic Materials and Devices, Ningbo Institute of Material Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315201, China
| | - Yu Zhou
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, China
| | - Qingqing Xie
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, China
| | - Yiwei Hu
- Medical College, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315000, China
| | - Xiaoqing Jiang
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, China
| | - Chen Tang
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, China
| | - Yuping Quan
- Department of Plastic Surgery and Regenerative Medicine, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, China
| | - Shareen Shafique
- Department of Microelectronic Science and Engineering, Ningbo Collaborative Innovation Center of Nonlinear Calamity System of Ocean and Atmosphere, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
| | - Ye Tian
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, China
| | - Yuejun Zhang
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, China
| | - Kun Zhou
- School of Science and Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518172, China
| | - Jiangbei Cao
- Department of Anesthesiology, the First Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, China.
| | - Jiawen Jian
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, China.
| | - Yuheng Wang
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, China.
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Wang Y, Xu T, Xu L, Miao G, Li F, Miao X, Lu J, Hou Z, Ren G, Zhu X. Mechanical Robust GO/PVA Hydrogel for Strong and Recyclable Adhesion in Air, Underwater, and Underoil Environments. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2024. [PMID: 38287225 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.3c03366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
Adhesive hydrogels are considered to be promising interfacial adhesive materials for various applications; however, their adhesive strength is significantly reduced when immersed in liquid environments (water and oil) due to obstruction of the liquid layer or swelling in liquid, and they could not always be reused when the failure of the adhesive performance occurred. Herein, a graphite oxide/poly(vinyl alcohol) (GO/PVA) hydrogel with strong adhesion in air and under liquid environments was developed by rationally regulating the interactions of water and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) in the binary liquid system. The strong interaction between water and DMSO allowed the water layer of the GO/PVA hydrogel on the hydrogel surface to act as a shield to repel oil in air, under water, and even when immersed in oil, and it also endowed the obtained hydrogel with antiswelling property when immersed in water and oil. Importantly, the GO/PVA hydrogel could serve as an advanced adhesive to firmly bond different substrates in air, under water, and under oil, and interestingly, its dry and wet adhesive performance was repeatable and recyclable. This work is expected to be an important addition to the field of adhesive soft materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yumin Wang
- School of Environmental and Material Engineering, Yantai University, Yantai 264405, China
| | - Ting Xu
- School of Environmental and Material Engineering, Yantai University, Yantai 264405, China
| | - Lide Xu
- School of Environmental and Material Engineering, Yantai University, Yantai 264405, China
| | - Gan Miao
- School of Environmental and Material Engineering, Yantai University, Yantai 264405, China
| | - Fangchao Li
- School of Environmental and Material Engineering, Yantai University, Yantai 264405, China
| | - Xiao Miao
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Optical Communication Science and Technology, School of Physics Science and Information Technology, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng 252000, China
| | - Jingwei Lu
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Bioengineering and Sensing Technology, School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Zhiqiang Hou
- School of Environmental and Material Engineering, Yantai University, Yantai 264405, China
| | - Guina Ren
- School of Environmental and Material Engineering, Yantai University, Yantai 264405, China
| | - Xiaotao Zhu
- School of Environmental and Material Engineering, Yantai University, Yantai 264405, China
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23
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Gong S, Lu Y, Yin J, Levin A, Cheng W. Materials-Driven Soft Wearable Bioelectronics for Connected Healthcare. Chem Rev 2024; 124:455-553. [PMID: 38174868 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.3c00502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
In the era of Internet-of-things, many things can stay connected; however, biological systems, including those necessary for human health, remain unable to stay connected to the global Internet due to the lack of soft conformal biosensors. The fundamental challenge lies in the fact that electronics and biology are distinct and incompatible, as they are based on different materials via different functioning principles. In particular, the human body is soft and curvilinear, yet electronics are typically rigid and planar. Recent advances in materials and materials design have generated tremendous opportunities to design soft wearable bioelectronics, which may bridge the gap, enabling the ultimate dream of connected healthcare for anyone, anytime, and anywhere. We begin with a review of the historical development of healthcare, indicating the significant trend of connected healthcare. This is followed by the focal point of discussion about new materials and materials design, particularly low-dimensional nanomaterials. We summarize material types and their attributes for designing soft bioelectronic sensors; we also cover their synthesis and fabrication methods, including top-down, bottom-up, and their combined approaches. Next, we discuss the wearable energy challenges and progress made to date. In addition to front-end wearable devices, we also describe back-end machine learning algorithms, artificial intelligence, telecommunication, and software. Afterward, we describe the integration of soft wearable bioelectronic systems which have been applied in various testbeds in real-world settings, including laboratories that are preclinical and clinical environments. Finally, we narrate the remaining challenges and opportunities in conjunction with our perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu Gong
- Department of Chemical & Biological Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Yan Lu
- Department of Chemical & Biological Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Jialiang Yin
- Department of Chemical & Biological Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Arie Levin
- Department of Chemical & Biological Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Wenlong Cheng
- Department of Chemical & Biological Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
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24
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Cao S, Lu Y, Tang Y, Sun Y, Zhou H, Zhang G, Lin X, Pang H. Constructing ion-transport blockchain by polypyrrole to link CoTi-ZIF-9 derived carbon materials for high-performance seawater desalination. J Colloid Interface Sci 2024; 654:466-475. [PMID: 37862798 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2023.10.065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
The instability and poor electronic conductivity of carbon materials derived from bimetallic zeolite imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs) pose significant challenges for utilizing these carbon materials as direct electrodes for achieving rapid electron transfer and high-performance capacitive deionization (CDI). However, modifying ZIFs through conductive polymers is a wise tool to enhance the target characteristics of ZIFs. Herein, a strategy is proposed to use polypyrrole (PPy) to interlink the carbon units derived from CoTi-ZIF-9 to construct a blockchain network system with high capacity and fast electrochemical kinetics for high performance CDI. In this system, PPy serves as a branched link connecting each carbon unit, so that the ions in the electrolyte can achieve low barrier and fast transmission in the three-dimensional network structure between the unit structures. As expected, with the improved charge transfer efficiency between electrode materials and electrolyte, the CDI cell exhibits excellent desalination capacity (77.3 mg g-1). In addition, density functional theory calculations also indicate that the introduction of PPy results in a higher electron density near the fermi surface of carbon material, which is conducive to electron transport and reaction kinetics. This work may provide important concepts for the design of CDI electrodes with high-conductivity and high-performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Cao
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, PR China
| | - Yibo Lu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, PR China
| | - Yijian Tang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, PR China
| | - Yangyang Sun
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, PR China
| | - Huijie Zhou
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, PR China
| | - Guangxun Zhang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, PR China
| | - Xinyi Lin
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, PR China
| | - Huan Pang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, PR China.
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25
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Wang Z, Wang S, Zhang L, Liu H, Xu X. Highly Strong, Tough, and Cryogenically Adaptive Hydrogel Ionic Conductors via Coordination Interactions. RESEARCH (WASHINGTON, D.C.) 2024; 7:0298. [PMID: 38222114 PMCID: PMC10786319 DOI: 10.34133/research.0298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Despite the promise of high flexibility and conformability of hydrogel ionic conductors, existing polymeric conductive hydrogels have long suffered from compromises in mechanical, electrical, and cryoadaptive properties due to monotonous functional improvement strategies, leading to lingering challenges. Here, we propose an all-in-one strategy for the preparation of poly(acrylic acid)/cellulose (PAA/Cel) hydrogel ionic conductors in a facile yet effective manner combining acrylic acid and salt-dissolved cellulose, in which abundant zinc ions simultaneously form strong coordination interactions with the two polymers, while free solute salts contribute to ionic conductivity and bind water molecules to prevent freezing. Therefore, the developed PAA/Cel hydrogel simultaneously achieved excellent mechanical, conductive, and cryogenically adaptive properties, with performances of 42.5 MPa for compressive strength, 1.6 MPa for tensile strength, 896.9% for stretchability, 9.2 MJ m-3 for toughness, 59.5 kJ m-2 for fracture energy, and 13.9 and 6.2 mS cm-1 for ionic conductivity at 25 and -70 °C, respectively. Enabled by these features, the resultant hydrogel ionic conductor is further demonstrated to be assembled as a self-powered electronic skin (e-skin) with high signal-to-noise ratio for use in monitoring movement and physiological signals regardless of cold temperatures, with hinting that could go beyond high-performance hydrogel ionic conductors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuomin Wang
- Institute of Chemical Industry of Forestry Products, Key Laboratory of Biomass Energy and Material, Jiangsu Province; Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering of Forest Products, National Forestry and Grassland Administration; National Engineering Research Center of Low-Carbon Processing and Utilization of Forest Biomass; Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center of Efficient Processing and Utilization of Forest Resources,
Chinese Academy of Forestry, Nanjing 210042, China
- College of Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu Co–Innovation Center of Efficient Processing and Utilization of Forest Resources,
Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing 210037, China
| | - Siheng Wang
- Institute of Chemical Industry of Forestry Products, Key Laboratory of Biomass Energy and Material, Jiangsu Province; Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering of Forest Products, National Forestry and Grassland Administration; National Engineering Research Center of Low-Carbon Processing and Utilization of Forest Biomass; Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center of Efficient Processing and Utilization of Forest Resources,
Chinese Academy of Forestry, Nanjing 210042, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Institute of Chemical Industry of Forestry Products, Key Laboratory of Biomass Energy and Material, Jiangsu Province; Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering of Forest Products, National Forestry and Grassland Administration; National Engineering Research Center of Low-Carbon Processing and Utilization of Forest Biomass; Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center of Efficient Processing and Utilization of Forest Resources,
Chinese Academy of Forestry, Nanjing 210042, China
| | - He Liu
- Institute of Chemical Industry of Forestry Products, Key Laboratory of Biomass Energy and Material, Jiangsu Province; Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering of Forest Products, National Forestry and Grassland Administration; National Engineering Research Center of Low-Carbon Processing and Utilization of Forest Biomass; Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center of Efficient Processing and Utilization of Forest Resources,
Chinese Academy of Forestry, Nanjing 210042, China
| | - Xu Xu
- College of Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu Co–Innovation Center of Efficient Processing and Utilization of Forest Resources,
Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing 210037, China
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26
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Cao C, Huang T, Li Y. Resilient and Tough Conductive Polymer Hydrogel for a Low-Hysteresis Strain Sensor. Macromol Rapid Commun 2024; 45:e2300467. [PMID: 37863475 DOI: 10.1002/marc.202300467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
Conductive polymer hydrogels are vital in strain sensors, yet achieving high resilience and toughness is a challenge. This study employs a prestretch method to engineer a tough conductive polymer hydrogel with sufficient resilience. Initially, a blend film of polyvinylalcohol (PVA) and ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer (EVOH) is prepared through solution casting, followed by a swelling process to form a PVA-EVOH hydrogel. This hydrogel, with PVA crystallites as crosslinking points, exhibits high toughness. The hydrogel is then immersed in pyrrole and ferric chloride solutions for in-situ polymerization of polypyrrole (PPy), creating a conductive PPy/PVA-EVOH hydrogel. Finally, a 200% prestretch is applied, breaking short chains within the network, eliminating energy dissipation at low strains. This results in a hydrogel with a 100% elastic deformation range, while maintaining high fracture toughness (1700 J m-2 ). The prestretched PPy/PVA-EVOH hydrogel functions as a strain sensor with low hysteresis, providing consistent strain measurements during loading and unloading. This outperforms the non-prestretched sample, which shows inconsistent responses between stretching and releasing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunyan Cao
- School of Electrics and Computer Engineering, Nanfang College, Guangzhou, Guangzhou, 510970, China
| | - Tao Huang
- College of Information Technology, Jilin Engineering Research Center of Optoelectronic Materials and Devices, Jilin Normal University, Siping, 136000, China
| | - Yunming Li
- School of New Energy Science and Engineering, Xinyu University, Xinyu, 338004, China
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27
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Chen J, Tian G, Liang C, Yang D, Zhao Q, Liu Y, Qi D. Liquid metal-hydrogel composites for flexible electronics. Chem Commun (Camb) 2023; 59:14353-14369. [PMID: 37916888 DOI: 10.1039/d3cc04198k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
As an emerging functional material, liquid metal-hydrogel composites exhibit excellent biosafety, high electrical conductivity, tunable mechanical properties and good adhesion, thus providing a unique platform for a wide range of flexible electronics applications such as wearable devices, medical devices, actuators, and energy conversion devices. Through different composite methods, liquid metals can be integrated into hydrogel matrices to form multifunctional composite material systems, which further expands the application range of hydrogels. In this paper, we provide a brief overview of the two materials: hydrogels and liquid metals, and discuss the synthesis method of liquid metal-hydrogel composites, focusing on the improvement of the performance of hydrogel materials by liquid metals. In addition, we summarize the research progress of liquid metal-hydrogel composites in the field of flexible electronics, pointing out the current challenges and future prospects of this material.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianhui Chen
- MIIT Key Laboratory of Critical Materials Technology for New Energy Conversion and Storage, National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Synthesis, Transformation and Separation of Extreme Environmental Nutrients, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001, P. R. China.
- Key Laboratory of Science and Engineering for the Multi-modal Prevention and Control of Major Chronic Diseases, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, Zhengzhou Research Institute, Harbin Institute of Technology, Zhengzhou 450046, P. R. China
| | - Gongwei Tian
- MIIT Key Laboratory of Critical Materials Technology for New Energy Conversion and Storage, National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Synthesis, Transformation and Separation of Extreme Environmental Nutrients, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001, P. R. China.
- Key Laboratory of Science and Engineering for the Multi-modal Prevention and Control of Major Chronic Diseases, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, Zhengzhou Research Institute, Harbin Institute of Technology, Zhengzhou 450046, P. R. China
| | - Cuiyuan Liang
- MIIT Key Laboratory of Critical Materials Technology for New Energy Conversion and Storage, National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Synthesis, Transformation and Separation of Extreme Environmental Nutrients, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001, P. R. China.
- Key Laboratory of Science and Engineering for the Multi-modal Prevention and Control of Major Chronic Diseases, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, Zhengzhou Research Institute, Harbin Institute of Technology, Zhengzhou 450046, P. R. China
| | - Dan Yang
- MIIT Key Laboratory of Critical Materials Technology for New Energy Conversion and Storage, National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Synthesis, Transformation and Separation of Extreme Environmental Nutrients, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001, P. R. China.
- Key Laboratory of Science and Engineering for the Multi-modal Prevention and Control of Major Chronic Diseases, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, Zhengzhou Research Institute, Harbin Institute of Technology, Zhengzhou 450046, P. R. China
| | - Qinyi Zhao
- MIIT Key Laboratory of Critical Materials Technology for New Energy Conversion and Storage, National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Synthesis, Transformation and Separation of Extreme Environmental Nutrients, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001, P. R. China.
- Key Laboratory of Science and Engineering for the Multi-modal Prevention and Control of Major Chronic Diseases, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, Zhengzhou Research Institute, Harbin Institute of Technology, Zhengzhou 450046, P. R. China
| | - Yan Liu
- MIIT Key Laboratory of Critical Materials Technology for New Energy Conversion and Storage, National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Synthesis, Transformation and Separation of Extreme Environmental Nutrients, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001, P. R. China.
- Key Laboratory of Science and Engineering for the Multi-modal Prevention and Control of Major Chronic Diseases, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, Zhengzhou Research Institute, Harbin Institute of Technology, Zhengzhou 450046, P. R. China
| | - Dianpeng Qi
- MIIT Key Laboratory of Critical Materials Technology for New Energy Conversion and Storage, National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Synthesis, Transformation and Separation of Extreme Environmental Nutrients, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001, P. R. China.
- Key Laboratory of Science and Engineering for the Multi-modal Prevention and Control of Major Chronic Diseases, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, Zhengzhou Research Institute, Harbin Institute of Technology, Zhengzhou 450046, P. R. China
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28
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Ding H, Liu J, Shen X, Li H. Advances in the Preparation of Tough Conductive Hydrogels for Flexible Sensors. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:4001. [PMID: 37836050 PMCID: PMC10575238 DOI: 10.3390/polym15194001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The rapid development of tough conductive hydrogels has led to considerable progress in the fields of tissue engineering, soft robots, flexible electronics, etc. Compared to other kinds of traditional sensing materials, tough conductive hydrogels have advantages in flexibility, stretchability and biocompatibility due to their biological structures. Numerous hydrogel flexible sensors have been developed based on specific demands for practical applications. This review focuses on tough conductive hydrogels for flexible sensors. Representative tactics to construct tough hydrogels and strategies to fulfill conductivity, which are of significance to fabricating tough conductive hydrogels, are briefly reviewed. Then, diverse tough conductive hydrogels are presented and discussed. Additionally, recent advancements in flexible sensors assembled with different tough conductive hydrogels as well as various designed structures and their sensing performances are demonstrated in detail. Applications, including the wearable skins, bionic muscles and robotic systems of these hydrogel-based flexible sensors with resistive and capacitive modes are discussed. Some perspectives on tough conductive hydrogels for flexible sensors are also stated at the end. This review will provide a comprehensive understanding of tough conductive hydrogels and will offer clues to researchers who have interests in pursuing flexible sensors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyao Ding
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 210009, China; (H.D.)
| | - Jie Liu
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 210009, China; (H.D.)
| | - Xiaodong Shen
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 210009, China; (H.D.)
| | - Hui Li
- Key Laboratory for Light-Weight Materials, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 210009, China
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29
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Shang Z, Liu G, Sun Y, Li C, Zhao N, Chen Z, Guo R, Zheng Z, Zhou F, Liu W. Mussel-Inspired Wet-Adhesive Multifunctional Organohydrogel with Extreme Environmental Tolerance for Wearable Strain Sensor. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023; 15:44342-44353. [PMID: 37668314 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c10213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
As a flexible artificial material, the conductive hydrogel has broad application prospects in flexible wearable electronics, soft robotics, and biomedical monitoring. However, traditional hydrogels still face many challenges, such as long-term stability, availability in extreme environments, and long-lasting adhesion to the skin surface under sweaty or humid conditions. To circumvent the above issues, one kind of ionic conductive hydrogel was prepared by a simple one-pot method that dissolved chitosan (CS), 2-acrylamido-2-methyl-1-propanesulfonic acid (AMPS), tannic acid (TA), and 2-methoxy-ethyl acrylate (MEA) into dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO)/H2O solvent. The resulting hydrogel showed excellent tensile properties (1440%), extreme environmental tolerance (-40-60 °C), adhesion (72 KPa at porcine skin), ionic conductivity (0.87 S m-1), and high-efficiency antibacterial property. Furthermore, the produced organohydrogel strain sensor exhibited high strain sensitivity (GF = 4.07), excellent signal sensing capabilities (human joint movement, microexpression, and sound signals), and long-term cyclic stability (400 cycles). Looking beyond, this work provides a simple and promising strategy for using hydrogel sensors in extreme environments for e-skin, health monitoring, and wearable electronic devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenling Shang
- Center of Advanced Lubrication and Sealing Materials, State Key Laboratory of Solidification Processing, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, China
| | - Guoqiang Liu
- Center of Advanced Lubrication and Sealing Materials, State Key Laboratory of Solidification Processing, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, China
| | - Yue Sun
- Center of Advanced Lubrication and Sealing Materials, State Key Laboratory of Solidification Processing, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, China
| | - Chenghao Li
- Center of Advanced Lubrication and Sealing Materials, State Key Laboratory of Solidification Processing, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, China
| | - Nan Zhao
- Center of Advanced Lubrication and Sealing Materials, State Key Laboratory of Solidification Processing, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, China
| | - Zhuo Chen
- Center of Advanced Lubrication and Sealing Materials, State Key Laboratory of Solidification Processing, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, China
| | - Ruisheng Guo
- Center of Advanced Lubrication and Sealing Materials, State Key Laboratory of Solidification Processing, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, China
| | - Zijian Zheng
- Center of Advanced Lubrication and Sealing Materials, State Key Laboratory of Solidification Processing, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, China
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong 00000,SAR, China
| | - Feng Zhou
- Center of Advanced Lubrication and Sealing Materials, State Key Laboratory of Solidification Processing, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, China
- State Key Laboratory of Solid Lubrication, Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Weimin Liu
- Center of Advanced Lubrication and Sealing Materials, State Key Laboratory of Solidification Processing, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, China
- State Key Laboratory of Solid Lubrication, Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, China
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30
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Liu Y, Wu F. Synthesis and application of polypyrrole nanofibers: a review. NANOSCALE ADVANCES 2023; 5:3606-3618. [PMID: 37441244 PMCID: PMC10334423 DOI: 10.1039/d3na00138e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
State-of-the-art polypyrrole nanofiber-based nanoarchitectonics can be generally fabricated by electrospinning, interfacial polymerization and reactive template methods. Even though analogous nanofiber morphologies and nanofibrous network architectures can be obtained by these methods, the structural details and structural complexities may alter significantly as different synthesis methods are applied. For the electrospinning technique, on one hand, nanofibers can be directly obtained by spinning polypyrrole-containing dope solutions; on the other, the electrospun nanofiber mats can be used as templates to direct the nanofiber formation; a two-step fabrication process, including the electrospinning of polymer nanofiber mats and deposition of polypyrrole on the polymer nanofibers' surface, is generally employed. By tuning the electrospinning parameters, the composition, diameter, morphology, and alignment of the as-obtained electrospun nanofiber mat can be effectively controlled, which may allow the fabrication of polypyrrole nanofibers with sophisticated nanostructures and nanoarchitectures. Interfacial polymerization is capable of generating polypyrrole nanofibers without templates. It is speculated that the protonation and re-orientation of polypyrrole at the oil-water interface may decoil the polymer chains and transform them into more extended conformations, while the charged polymer chains more easily diffuse into the water phase and form a stable dispersion. Different from electrospinning, the reactive templates may drive the formation of polypyrrole nanofibers through either redox or protonation mechanisms. Nanofibers with different curvatures, compositions, and architectures can be obtained by using different types of reactive template in a simple, fast, environment-friendly and one-step manner. A wide range of applications have been demonstrated by the polypyrrole nanofiber-based nanoarchitectonics, including cell culture, tissue engineering, neural stimulation, energy storage, and organic electronics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Liu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University Shenzhen China 518107
| | - Feng Wu
- Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Energy Saving in Phosphorus Chemical Engineering and New Phosphorus Materials China
- Engineering Research Center of Biodegradable Plastics, Educational Commission of Yunnan Province China
- Faculty of Chemical Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology Kunming Yunnan China 650500
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Liu T, Chen W, Li K, Long S, Li X, Huang Y. Toughening Weak Polyampholyte Hydrogels with Weak Chain Entanglements via a Secondary Equilibrium Approach. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:2644. [PMID: 37376290 DOI: 10.3390/polym15122644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Polyampholyte (PA) hydrogels are randomly copolymerized from anionic and cationic monomers, showing good mechanical properties owing to the existence of numerous ionic bonds in the networks. However, relatively tough PA gels can be synthesized successfully only at high monomer concentrations (CM), where relatively strong chain entanglements exist to stabilize the primary supramolecular networks. This study aims to toughen weak PA gels with relatively weak primary topological entanglements (at relatively low CM) via a secondary equilibrium approach. According to this approach, an as-prepared PA gel is first dialyzed in a FeCl3 solution to reach a swelling equilibrium and then dialyzed in sufficient deionized water to remove excess free ions to achieve a new equilibrium, resulting in the modified PA gels. It is proved that the modified PA gels are eventually constructed by both ionic and metal coordination bonds, which could synergistically enhance the chain interactions and enable the network toughening. Systematic studies indicate that both CM and FeCl3 concentration (CFeCl3) influence the enhancement effectiveness of the modified PA gels, although all the gels could be dramatically enhanced. The mechanical properties of the modified PA gel could be optimized at CM = 2.0 M and CFeCl3 = 0.3 M, where the Young's modulus, tensile fracture strength, and work of tension are improved by 1800%, 600%, and 820%, respectively, comparing to these of the original PA gel. By selecting a different PA gel system and diverse metal ions (i.e., Al3+, Mg2+, Ca2+), we further prove that the proposed approach is generally appliable. A theoretical model is used to understand the toughening mechanism. This work well extends the simple yet general approach for the toughening of weak PA gels with relatively weak chain entanglements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Liu
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Green Materials for Light Industry, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China
| | - Wenjun Chen
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Green Materials for Light Industry, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China
| | - Kai Li
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Green Materials for Light Industry, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China
| | - Shijun Long
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Green Materials for Light Industry, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China
- New Materials and Green Manufacturing Talent Introduction and Innovation Demonstration Base, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China
| | - Xuefeng Li
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Green Materials for Light Industry, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China
- New Materials and Green Manufacturing Talent Introduction and Innovation Demonstration Base, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China
| | - Yiwan Huang
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Green Materials for Light Industry, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China
- New Materials and Green Manufacturing Talent Introduction and Innovation Demonstration Base, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China
- Non-Power Nuclear Technology Collaborative Innovation Center, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning 437100, China
- Hubei Longzhong Laboratory, Xiangyang 441000, China
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Khan B, Abdullah S, Khan S. Current Progress in Conductive Hydrogels and Their Applications in Wearable Bioelectronics and Therapeutics. MICROMACHINES 2023; 14:mi14051005. [PMID: 37241628 DOI: 10.3390/mi14051005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Wearable bioelectronics and therapeutics are a rapidly evolving area of research, with researchers exploring new materials that offer greater flexibility and sophistication. Conductive hydrogels have emerged as a promising material due to their tunable electrical properties, flexible mechanical properties, high elasticity, stretchability, excellent biocompatibility, and responsiveness to stimuli. This review presents an overview of recent breakthroughs in conductive hydrogels, including their materials, classification, and applications. By providing a comprehensive review of current research, this paper aims to equip researchers with a deeper understanding of conductive hydrogels and inspire new design approaches for various healthcare applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bangul Khan
- Hong Kong Center for Cerebro-Cardiovascular Health Engineering (COCHE), Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Saad Abdullah
- School of Innovation, Design and Engineering, Division of Intelligent Future Technologies, Mälardalen University, P.O. Box 883, 721 26 Västerås, Sweden
| | - Samiullah Khan
- Center for Eye & Vision Research, 17W Science Park, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Zhang Y, Cao X, Zhao Y, Li H, Xiao S, Chen Z, Huang G, Sun Y, Liu Z, He Z. An Anisotropic Hydrogel by Programmable Ionic Crosslinking for Sequential Two-Stage Actuation under Single Stimulus. Gels 2023; 9:gels9040279. [PMID: 37102891 PMCID: PMC10137370 DOI: 10.3390/gels9040279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
As one of the most important anisotropic intelligent materials, bi-layer stimuli-responsive actuating hydrogels have proven their wide potential in soft robots, artificial muscles, biosensors, and drug delivery. However, they can commonly provide a simple one-actuating process under one external stimulus, which severely limits their further application. Herein, we have developed a new anisotropic hydrogel actuator by local ionic crosslinking on the poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) hydrogel layer of the bi-layer hydrogel for sequential two-stage bending under a single stimulus. Under pH = 13, ionic-crosslinked PAA networks undergo shrinking (-COO−/Fe3+ complexation) and swelling (water absorption) processes. As a combination of Fe3+ crosslinked PAA hydrogel (PAA@Fe3+) with non-swelling poly(3-(1-(4-vinylbenzyl)-1H-imidazol-3-ium-3-yl)propane-1-sulfonate) (PZ) hydrogel, the as-prepared PZ-PAA@Fe3+ bi-layer hydrogel exhibits distinct fast and large-amplitude bidirectional bending behavior. Such sequential two-stage actuation, including bending orientation, angle, and velocity, can be controlled by pH, temperature, hydrogel thickness, and Fe3+ concentration. Furthermore, hand-patterning Fe3+ to crosslink with PAA enables us to achieve various complex 2D and 3D shape transformations. Our work provides a new bi-layer hydrogel system that performs sequential two-stage bending without switching external stimuli, which will inspire the design of programmable and versatile hydrogel-based actuators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanjing Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical and Chemical Engineering, Taizhou University, Taizhou 318000, China
| | - Xingyu Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Utilization in South China Sea, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Yuyu Zhao
- School of Pharmaceutical and Chemical Engineering, Taizhou University, Taizhou 318000, China
| | - Huahuo Li
- School of Pharmaceutical and Chemical Engineering, Taizhou University, Taizhou 318000, China
| | - Shengwei Xiao
- School of Pharmaceutical and Chemical Engineering, Taizhou University, Taizhou 318000, China
- Correspondence: (S.X.); (Y.S.); (Z.H.)
| | - Zhangxin Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical and Chemical Engineering, Taizhou University, Taizhou 318000, China
| | - Guobo Huang
- School of Pharmaceutical and Chemical Engineering, Taizhou University, Taizhou 318000, China
| | - Ye Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Utilization in South China Sea, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
- Correspondence: (S.X.); (Y.S.); (Z.H.)
| | - Zhenzhong Liu
- Research Institute of Zhejiang University-Taizhou, Taizhou 318000, China
| | - Zhicai He
- School of Pharmaceutical and Chemical Engineering, Taizhou University, Taizhou 318000, China
- Correspondence: (S.X.); (Y.S.); (Z.H.)
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