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Boateng D, Li X, Zhu Y, Zhang H, Wu M, Liu J, Kang Y, Zeng H, Han L. Recent advances in flexible hydrogel sensors: Enhancing data processing and machine learning for intelligent perception. Biosens Bioelectron 2024; 261:116499. [PMID: 38896981 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2024.116499] [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: 03/27/2024] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
With the advent of flexible electronics and sensing technology, hydrogel-based flexible sensors have exhibited considerable potential across a diverse range of applications, including wearable electronics and soft robotics. Recently, advanced machine learning (ML) algorithms have been integrated into flexible hydrogel sensing technology to enhance their data processing capabilities and to achieve intelligent perception. However, there are no reviews specifically focusing on the data processing steps and analysis based on the raw sensing data obtained by flexible hydrogel sensors. Here we provide a comprehensive review of the latest advancements and breakthroughs in intelligent perception achieved through the fusion of ML algorithms with flexible hydrogel sensors, across various applications. Moreover, this review thoroughly examines the data processing techniques employed in flexible hydrogel sensors, offering valuable perspectives expected to drive future data-driven applications in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derrick Boateng
- College of Applied Sciences, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, China; Guangdong Key Laboratory for Biomedical Measurements and Ultrasound Imaging, National-Regional Key Technology Engineering Laboratory for Medical Ultrasound, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, 518060, China; College of Health Science and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen Technology University, Shenzhen, 518188, China
| | - Xukai Li
- College of Health Science and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen Technology University, Shenzhen, 518188, China
| | - Yuhan Zhu
- College of Health Science and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen Technology University, Shenzhen, 518188, China
| | - Hao Zhang
- School of Physics and Optoelectronic Engineering, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, China.
| | - Meng Wu
- Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 2V4, Canada
| | - Jifang Liu
- The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510700, China
| | - Yan Kang
- College of Applied Sciences, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, China; Guangdong Key Laboratory for Biomedical Measurements and Ultrasound Imaging, National-Regional Key Technology Engineering Laboratory for Medical Ultrasound, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, 518060, China; College of Health Science and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen Technology University, Shenzhen, 518188, China
| | - Hongbo Zeng
- Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 2V4, Canada
| | - Linbo Han
- College of Health Science and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen Technology University, Shenzhen, 518188, China.
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Lee HK, Yang YJ, Koirala GR, Oh S, Kim TI. From lab to wearables: Innovations in multifunctional hydrogel chemistry for next-generation bioelectronic devices. Biomaterials 2024; 310:122632. [PMID: 38824848 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2024.122632] [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: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 05/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
Functional hydrogels have emerged as foundational materials in diagnostics, therapy, and wearable devices, owing to their high stretchability, flexibility, sensing, and outstanding biocompatibility. Their significance stems from their resemblance to biological tissue and their exceptional versatility in electrical, mechanical, and biofunctional engineering, positioning themselves as a bridge between living organisms and electronic systems, paving the way for the development of highly compatible, efficient, and stable interfaces. These multifaceted capability revolutionizes the essence of hydrogel-based wearable devices, distinguishing them from conventional biomedical devices in real-world practical applications. In this comprehensive review, we first discuss the fundamental chemistry of hydrogels, elucidating their distinct properties and functionalities. Subsequently, we examine the applications of these bioelectronics within the human body, unveiling their transformative potential in diagnostics, therapy, and human-machine interfaces (HMI) in real wearable bioelectronics. This exploration serves as a scientific compass for researchers navigating the interdisciplinary landscape of chemistry, materials science, and bioelectronics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hin Kiu Lee
- School of Chemical Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Ye Ji Yang
- School of Chemical Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Gyan Raj Koirala
- School of Chemical Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea; Biomedical Institute for Convergence at SKKU (BICS), Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Suyoun Oh
- School of Chemical Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae-Il Kim
- School of Chemical Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea; Biomedical Institute for Convergence at SKKU (BICS), Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea.
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3
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Zhang Y, Yuan Y, Yu H, Cai C, Sun J, Tian X. A stretchable conductive elastomer sensor with self-healing and highly linear strain for human movement detection and pressure response. MATERIALS HORIZONS 2024; 11:3911-3920. [PMID: 38836844 DOI: 10.1039/d4mh00448e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
Expanding the detection information of wearable smart devices in applications has practical implications for their use in daily life and healthcare. Damage and breakage caused by mechanical injuries and continuous use are unavoidable for polymer matrices so self-healing properties are expected to be conferred on flexible sensors to extend their life and durability. In addition, a good linearity of relative resistance change vs. strain (gauge factor, GF) facilitates the streamlined conversion of electrical signals to 3D information of human motion, whereas existing works on sensors neglect the quantitative analysis of signals. This letter reports a self-healable flexible electronic sensor based on hydrogen bonding and electrostatic interaction between maleic acid-grafted natural rubber (MNR), polyaniline (PANI), and phytic acid (PA). MNR is the flexible matrix and the template for aniline (ANI) polymerization, and PA acts as the dopant and crosslinking agent. The MNR-PANI-PA sensor shows easy self-healing at room temperature, enhanced mechanical behaviour (∼2.5 MPa, 1000% strain), and excellent linearity (GF of 13.8 over 250% strain and GF of 32.0 over 250-100% strain). Due to the highly linear relationship between ΔR/R and bending angle, the electrical signals of human limb movement can output relevant information on bending angle and frequency. By constructing a sensing array, changes in the position and magnitude of applied pressure could also be detected in real-time. Based on these advantages, the MNR-PANI-PA composite sensor is expected to have potential applications in health monitoring, body motion detection, and electronic skins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Zhang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Advanced Polymeric Materials, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, P. R. China.
| | - Yizhong Yuan
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Advanced Polymeric Materials, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, P. R. China.
| | - Huimei Yu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, P. R. China.
| | - Chunhua Cai
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Advanced Polymeric Materials, Key Laboratory for Ultrafine Materials of Ministry of Education, Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, School of Materials Science and Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, P. R. China
| | - Jinyu Sun
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Advanced Polymeric Materials, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, P. R. China.
| | - Xiaohui Tian
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Advanced Polymeric Materials, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, P. R. China.
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Deng Y, Yang M, Xiao G, Jiang X. Preparation of strong, tough and conductive soy protein isolate/poly(vinyl alcohol)-based hydrogel via the synergy of biomineralization and salting out. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 257:128566. [PMID: 38056752 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.128566] [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: 09/02/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
Conductive hydrogels have shown a great potential in the field of flexible electronic devices. However, conductive hydrogels prepare by traditional methods are difficult to combine high strength and toughness, which limits their application in various fields. In this study, a strategy for preparing conductive hydrogels with high strength and toughness by using the synergistic effect of biomineralization and salting-out was pioneered. In simple terms, by immersing the CaCl2 doped soy protein isolate/poly(vinyl alcohol)/dimethyl sulfoxide (SPI/PVA/DMSO) hydrogel in Na2CO3 and Na3Cit complex solution, the biomineralization aroused by Ca2+ and CO32-, and the salting-out effect of both NaCl and Na3Cit would enhance the mechanical properties of SPI/PVA/DMSO hydrogel. Meanwhile, the ionic conductivity of the hydrogel would also increase due the introduction of cation and anion. The mechanical and electrical properties of SPI/PVA/DMSO/CaCO3/Na3Cit hydrogels were significantly enhanced by the synergistic effect of biomineralization and salting-out. The optimum tensile strength, toughness, Young's modulus and ionic conductivity of the hydrogel were 1.4 ± 0.08 MPa, 0.51 ± 0.04 MPa and 1.46 ± 0.01 S/m, respectively. The SPI/PVA/DMSO/CaCO3/Na3Cit hydrogel was assembled into a strain sensor. The strain sensor had good sensitivity (GF = 3.18, strain in 20 %-500 %) and could be used to accurately detect various human movements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingxue Deng
- School of Chemical Engineering, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China; College of Environment & Safety Engineering, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China
| | - Mohan Yang
- School of Chemical Engineering, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China
| | - Gao Xiao
- College of Environment & Safety Engineering, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China.
| | - Xiancai Jiang
- School of Chemical Engineering, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China; Qingyuan Innovation Laboratory, Quanzhou 362114, China.
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He S, Liu Z, Wu X, Liu J, Fang H, Shao W. Novel flexible hydrogels based on carboxymethyl guar gum and polyacrylic acid for ultra-highly sensitive and reliable strain and pressure sensors. Carbohydr Polym 2024; 324:121515. [PMID: 37985099 DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2023.121515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2023] [Revised: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
To realize on stable and real-time monitoring of human activities, novel hydrogels using polyacrylic acid (PAA) and carboxymethyl guar gum (CMGG) were fabricated as wearable and flexible strain or pressure sensors in the presence of lignosulfonate (LS) and Al3+. Based on the co-existence of metal coordination bonds, hydrogen bonds and ionic interaction in this system, the obtained hydrogels exhibited desirable mechanical properties with good self-recovery ability. The hydrogels displayed good self-adhesion behavior and an ultra-high tensile sensitivity (gauge factor (GF) = 24.30), therefore, they could precisely detect human joints movements such as elbow, wrist, and finger bending as well as tiny movements and external stimuli such as swallowing, smile, frown, pulse, speaking, writing, and even the falling of different liquid drops. Additionally, the hydrogels showed excellent self-healing ability with the healing efficiency as high as 100 % after 30 h. Most importantly, the healed hydrogel could perform the same sensing performance as before. Based on these distinguished characteristics, this hydrogel represents great potentials in wearable and flexible sensors for long-term and stable health monitoring application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu He
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center of Efficient Processing and Utilization of Forest Resources, College of Chemical Engineering, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing 210037, China
| | - Zeng Liu
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center of Efficient Processing and Utilization of Forest Resources, College of Chemical Engineering, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing 210037, China
| | - Xing Wu
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center of Efficient Processing and Utilization of Forest Resources, College of Chemical Engineering, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing 210037, China
| | - Jia Liu
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center of Efficient Processing and Utilization of Forest Resources, College of Chemical Engineering, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing 210037, China
| | - Hongli Fang
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center of Efficient Processing and Utilization of Forest Resources, College of Chemical Engineering, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing 210037, China
| | - Wei Shao
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center of Efficient Processing and Utilization of Forest Resources, College of Chemical Engineering, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing 210037, China.
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Zhang J, Wang Y, Wei Q, Li M, Chen X. 3D printable, stretchable, anti-freezing and rapid self-healing organogel-based sensors for human motion detection. J Colloid Interface Sci 2024; 653:1514-1525. [PMID: 37804619 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2023.09.183] [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: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023]
Abstract
Self-healing hydrogels have promising applications in sensors and wearable devices. However, self-healing hydrogels prepared with water as the dispersion medium inevitably freeze at sub-zero temperature, resulting in a loss of the self-healing and sensing ability. The black phosphorene / ethylene glycol / polyvinyl alcohol / sodium tetraborate / sodium alginate (BP/EG-SPB) organogels were prepared by 3D printing technology and solvent displacement method. The organogel exhibits high stretchability (1900 % strain), excellent self-healing property (25 s) and outstanding anti-freezing property (lower than -120 °C freezing point). Furthermore, the organogel can rapidly self-healed (150 s) at a low temperature (-80 °C) without any external stimulation. Additionally, this organogel-based flexible sensor possesses excellent sensitivity (gauge factor: 28.66 at 1900 % strain) and fast response capability, allowing for effective detection of human motion. This work provides a novel method for preparing multifunctional organogel-based sensors for use in harsh climates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Zhang
- Industry Engineering Department, School of Mechanical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, China; Bio-Additive Manufacturing University-Enterprise Joint Research Center of Shaanxi Province, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, China
| | - Yanen Wang
- Industry Engineering Department, School of Mechanical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, China; Bio-Additive Manufacturing University-Enterprise Joint Research Center of Shaanxi Province, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, China.
| | - Qinghua Wei
- Industry Engineering Department, School of Mechanical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, China; Bio-Additive Manufacturing University-Enterprise Joint Research Center of Shaanxi Province, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, China.
| | - Mingyang Li
- Industry Engineering Department, School of Mechanical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, China; Bio-Additive Manufacturing University-Enterprise Joint Research Center of Shaanxi Province, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, China
| | - Xiaohu Chen
- Industry Engineering Department, School of Mechanical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, China; Bio-Additive Manufacturing University-Enterprise Joint Research Center of Shaanxi Province, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, China
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Wei J, Xiao P, Chen T. Water-Resistant Conductive Gels toward Underwater Wearable Sensing. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2211758. [PMID: 36857417 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202211758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Conductive gels are developing vigorously as superior wearable sensing materials due to their intrinsic conductivity, softness, stretchability, and biocompatibility, showing a great potential in many aspects of lives. However, compared to their wide application on land, it is significant yet rather challenging for traditional conductive gels to realize sensing application under water. The swelling of gels and the loss of conductive components in the aqueous environment, resulted from the diffusion across the interface, lead to structural instability and sensing performance decline. Fortunately, great efforts are devoted to improving the water resistance of conductive gels and employing them in the field of underwater wearable sensing in recent years, and some exciting achievements are obtained, which are of great significance for promoting the safety and efficiency of underwater activities. However, there is no review to thoroughly summarize the underwater sensing application of conductive gels. This review presents a brief overview of the representative design strategies for developing water-resistant conductive gels and their diversified applications in the underwater sensing field as wearable sensors. Finally, the ongoing challenges for further developing water-resistant conductive gels for underwater wearable sensing are also discussed along with recommendations for the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junjie Wei
- Key Laboratory of Marine Materials and Related Technologies, Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Marine Materials and Protective Technologies, Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo, 315201, China
- School of Chemical Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Peng Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Marine Materials and Related Technologies, Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Marine Materials and Protective Technologies, Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo, 315201, China
- School of Chemical Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Tao Chen
- Key Laboratory of Marine Materials and Related Technologies, Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Marine Materials and Protective Technologies, Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo, 315201, China
- School of Chemical Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
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Chen X, Zhang H, Cui J, Wang Y, Li M, Zhang J, Wang C, Liu Z, Wei Q. Enhancing Conductivity and Self-Healing Properties of PVA/GEL/OSA Composite Hydrogels by GO/SWNTs for Electronic Skin. Gels 2023; 9:gels9020155. [PMID: 36826325 PMCID: PMC9956163 DOI: 10.3390/gels9020155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The use of flexible, self-healing conductive hydrogels as a type of typical electronic skin with the function of transmitting sensory signals has attracted wide attention in the field of biomaterials. In this study, composite hydrogels based on polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), gelatin (GEL), oxidized sodium alginate (OSA), graphene oxide (GO), and single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) were successfully prepared. The hydrogen and imine bonding of the composite hydrogels gives them excellent self-healing properties. Their self-healing properties restore 68% of their breaking strength and over 95% of their electrical conductivity. The addition of GO and SWNTs enables the PGO-GS hydrogels to achieve a compressive modulus and conductivity of 42.2 kPa and 29.6 mS/m, which is 8.2 times and 1.5 times that of pure PGO, respectively. Furthermore, the PGO-GS hydrogels can produce profound feedback signals in response to deformation caused by external forces and human movements such as finger flexion and speech. In addition, the PGO-GS hydrogels exhibit superior biocompatibility compared to PGO. All of these results indicate that the PGO-GS hydrogels have great potential with respect to future applications in the field of electronic skin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohu Chen
- Department of Indurstry and Engineering, School of Mechanical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an 710072, China
- Bio-Additive Manufacturing University-Enterprise Joint Research Center of Shaanxi Province, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an 710072, China
| | - Haonan Zhang
- Department of Indurstry and Engineering, School of Mechanical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an 710072, China
- Bio-Additive Manufacturing University-Enterprise Joint Research Center of Shaanxi Province, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an 710072, China
| | - Jiashu Cui
- Department of Indurstry and Engineering, School of Mechanical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an 710072, China
- Bio-Additive Manufacturing University-Enterprise Joint Research Center of Shaanxi Province, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an 710072, China
| | - Yanen Wang
- Department of Indurstry and Engineering, School of Mechanical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an 710072, China
- Bio-Additive Manufacturing University-Enterprise Joint Research Center of Shaanxi Province, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an 710072, China
- Correspondence: (Y.W.); (Q.W.); Tel./Fax: +86-029-88493232 (Y.W.)
| | - Mingyang Li
- Department of Indurstry and Engineering, School of Mechanical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an 710072, China
- Bio-Additive Manufacturing University-Enterprise Joint Research Center of Shaanxi Province, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an 710072, China
| | - Juan Zhang
- Department of Indurstry and Engineering, School of Mechanical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an 710072, China
- Bio-Additive Manufacturing University-Enterprise Joint Research Center of Shaanxi Province, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an 710072, China
| | - Changgeng Wang
- Department of Indurstry and Engineering, School of Mechanical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an 710072, China
- Bio-Additive Manufacturing University-Enterprise Joint Research Center of Shaanxi Province, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an 710072, China
| | - Zhisheng Liu
- Department of Indurstry and Engineering, School of Mechanical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an 710072, China
- Bio-Additive Manufacturing University-Enterprise Joint Research Center of Shaanxi Province, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an 710072, China
| | - Qinghua Wei
- Department of Indurstry and Engineering, School of Mechanical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an 710072, China
- Bio-Additive Manufacturing University-Enterprise Joint Research Center of Shaanxi Province, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an 710072, China
- Correspondence: (Y.W.); (Q.W.); Tel./Fax: +86-029-88493232 (Y.W.)
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Zhu W, Zhang J, Wei Z, Zhang B, Weng X. Advances and Progress in Self-Healing Hydrogel and Its Application in Regenerative Medicine. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 16:ma16031215. [PMID: 36770226 PMCID: PMC9920416 DOI: 10.3390/ma16031215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
A hydrogel is a three-dimensional structure that holds plenty of water, but brittleness largely limits its application. Self-healing hydrogels, a new type of hydrogel that can be repaired by itself after external damage, have exhibited better fatigue resistance, reusability, hydrophilicity, and responsiveness to environmental stimuli. The past decade has seen rapid progress in self-healing hydrogels. Self-healing hydrogels can automatically self-repair after external damage. Different strategies have been proposed, including dynamic covalent bonds and reversible noncovalent interactions. Compared to traditional hydrogels, self-healing gels have better durability, responsiveness, and plasticity. These features allow the hydrogel to survive in harsh environments or even to be injected as a drug carrier. Here, we summarize the common strategies for designing self-healing hydrogels and their potential applications in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Jinyi Zhang
- School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Zhanqi Wei
- School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Baozhong Zhang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Xisheng Weng
- Department of Orthopaedics, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
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Lin W, Wei X, Liu S, Zhang J, Yang T, Chen S. Recent Advances in Mechanical Reinforcement of Zwitterionic Hydrogels. Gels 2022; 8:gels8090580. [PMID: 36135292 PMCID: PMC9498500 DOI: 10.3390/gels8090580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 08/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
As a nonspecific protein adsorption material, a strong hydration layer provides zwitterionic hydrogels with excellent application potential while weakening the interaction between zwitterionic units, leading to poor mechanical properties. The unique anti-polyelectrolyte effect in ionic solution further restricts the application value due to the worsening mechanical strength. To overcome the limitations of zwitterionic hydrogels that can only be used in scenarios that do not require mechanical properties, several methods for strengthening mechanical properties based on enhancing intermolecular interaction forces and polymer network structure design have been extensively studied. Here, we review the works on preparing tough zwitterionic hydrogel. Based on the spatial and molecular structure design, tough zwitterionic hydrogels have been considered as an important candidate for advanced biomedical and soft ionotronic devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weifeng Lin
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Inspired Smart Interfacial Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Xinyue Wei
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
| | - Sihang Liu
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Optical Communication Systems and Networks, Key Laboratory for Thin Film and Microfabrication of the Ministry of Education, UM-SJTU Joint Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
- Correspondence: (S.L.); (S.C.)
| | - Juan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
- Zhejiang Poly Pharm Co., Ltd., Hangzhou 311199, China
| | - Tian Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Optical Communication Systems and Networks, Key Laboratory for Thin Film and Microfabrication of the Ministry of Education, UM-SJTU Joint Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Shengfu Chen
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
- Correspondence: (S.L.); (S.C.)
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Zhang J, Wang Y, Wei Q, Wang Y, Li M, Li D, Zhang L. A 3D printable, highly stretchable, self-healing hydrogel-based sensor based on polyvinyl alcohol/sodium tetraborate/sodium alginate for human motion monitoring. Int J Biol Macromol 2022; 219:1216-1226. [PMID: 36058388 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2022.08.175] [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: 06/05/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Self-healing hydrogels have great application potential in the field of bio-sensors due to their self-healing, flexibility and excellent tensile properties. However, most hydrogel-based sensors are processed by template method, which is unable to fabricate complex three-dimensional (3D) structures, and limits the development of hydrogel-based sensor devices. A simple yet efficient one-pot method was proposed to fabricate polyvinyl alcohol/sodium tetraborate/sodium alginate hydrogel inks (SPB), also a fabricating process of self-healing hydrogel based on 3D printing technology has been proposed. The SPB hydrogel rapidly healed (<30 s) at room temperature, while its mechanical properties and conductivity also recovered quickly after healing. Besides, it could be used as wearable strain sensors, whose high stretchability (>2800 % strain) and sensitivity (gauge factor: 18.56 at 2000 % strain) could not only detect very large stretch deformations, but also detect the tiny pressure changes in the human body, such as finger flexion, knee flexion, and respiration. This study provides a method for the rapid fabrication of complex-structured hydrogel-based sensors, which is helpful for the hydrogel-based sensor applications in human motion detection and wearable devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Zhang
- Industry Engineering Department, School of Mechanical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, China; Institute of Medical Research, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, China
| | - Yanen Wang
- Industry Engineering Department, School of Mechanical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, China; Institute of Medical Research, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, China.
| | - Qinghua Wei
- Industry Engineering Department, School of Mechanical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, China; Institute of Medical Research, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, China.
| | - Yanmei Wang
- Industry Engineering Department, School of Mechanical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, China; Institute of Medical Research, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, China
| | - Mingyang Li
- Industry Engineering Department, School of Mechanical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, China; Institute of Medical Research, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, China
| | - Dinghao Li
- Industry Engineering Department, School of Mechanical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, China; Institute of Medical Research, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, China
| | - Longyu Zhang
- Industry Engineering Department, School of Mechanical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, China; Institute of Medical Research, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, China
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Zhang G, Qiu H, Elkhodary KI, Tang S, Peng D. Modeling Tunable Fracture in Hydrogel Shell Structures for Biomedical Applications. Gels 2022; 8:515. [PMID: 36005116 PMCID: PMC9407534 DOI: 10.3390/gels8080515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2022] [Revised: 07/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Hydrogels are nowadays widely used in various biomedical applications, and show great potential for the making of devices such as biosensors, drug- delivery vectors, carriers, or matrices for cell cultures in tissue engineering, etc. In these applications, due to the irregular complex surface of the human body or its organs/structures, the devices are often designed with a small thickness, and are required to be flexible when attached to biological surfaces. The devices will deform as driven by human motion and under external loading. In terms of mechanical modeling, most of these devices can be abstracted as shells. In this paper, we propose a mixed graph-finite element method (FEM) phase field approach to model the fracture of curved shells composed of hydrogels, for biomedical applications. We present herein examples for the fracture of a wearable biosensor, a membrane-coated drug, and a matrix for a cell culture, each made of a hydrogel. Used in combination with experimental material testing, our method opens a new pathway to the efficient modeling of fracture in biomedical devices with surfaces of arbitrary curvature, helping in the design of devices with tunable fracture properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gang Zhang
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Equipment Intensification and Intrinsic Safety, Wuhan 430205, China
- School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Wuhan Institute of Technology, Wuhan 430200, China
| | - Hai Qiu
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang 212003, China
| | - Khalil I. Elkhodary
- The Department of Mechanical Engineering, The American University in Cairo, New Cairo 11835, Egypt
| | - Shan Tang
- Department of Engineering Mechanics, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
- State Key Laboratory of Structural Analysis for Industrial Equipment, International Research Center for Computational Mechanics, Department of Engineering Mechanics, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Dan Peng
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116023, China
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Diao Q, Liu H, Yang Y. A Highly Mechanical, Conductive, and Cryophylactic Double Network Hydrogel for Flexible and Low-Temperature Tolerant Strain Sensors. Gels 2022; 8:gels8070424. [PMID: 35877509 PMCID: PMC9322378 DOI: 10.3390/gels8070424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 07/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Due to their stretchability, conductivity, and good biocompatibility, hydrogels have been recognized as potential materials for flexible sensors. However, it is still challenging for hydrogels to meet the conductivity, mechanical strength, and freeze-resistant requirements in practice. In this study, a chitosan-poly (acrylic acid-co-acrylamide) double network (DN) hydrogel was prepared by immersing the chitosan-poly (acrylic acid-co-acrylamide) composite hydrogel into Fe2(SO4)3 solution. Due to the formation of an energy-dissipative chitosan physical network, the DN hydrogel possessed excellent tensile and compression properties. Moreover, the incorporation of the inorganic salt endowed the DN hydrogel with excellent conductivity and freeze-resistance. The strain sensor prepared using this DN hydrogel displayed remarkable sensitivity and reliability in detecting stretching and bending deformations. In addition, this DN hydrogel sensor also worked well at a lower temperature (−20 °C). The highly mechanical, conductive, and freeze-resistant DN hydrogel revealed a promising application in the field of wearable devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quan Diao
- College of Materials & Chemical Engineering, Zhongyuan University of Technology, Zhengzhou 450007, China
- Correspondence: (Q.D.); (Y.Y.)
| | - Hongyan Liu
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China;
| | - Yanyu Yang
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China;
- Correspondence: (Q.D.); (Y.Y.)
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Zaidi SFA, Kim YA, Saeed A, Sarwar N, Lee NE, Yoon DH, Lim B, Lee JH. Tannic acid modified antifreezing gelatin organohydrogel for low modulus, high toughness, and sensitive flexible strain sensor. Int J Biol Macromol 2022; 209:1665-1675. [PMID: 35487373 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2022.04.099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 03/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Current hydrogel strain sensors have met assorted essential requirements of wearing comfort, mechanical toughness, and strain sensitivity. However, an increment in the toughness of a hydrogel usually leads to an increase in elastic moduli that could be unfavorable for wearing comfort. In addition, traits of biofriendly and sustainability require synthesis of the hydrogels from natural polymer-based networks. We propose a novel strategy to fabricate an ionic conductive organohydrogel from natural biological macromolecule "gelatin" and polyacid "tannic acid" to resolve these challenges. Tannic acid modified the structure of the gelatin network in the ionic conductive organohydrogels, that not only led to an increase in toughness accompanying a decrease in elastic moduli but also headed to higher strain sensitivity and tunability. The proposed methodology exhibited tunable tensile modulus from 27 to 13 kPa, tensile strength from 287 to 325 kPa, elongation at fracture from 510 to 620%, toughness from 500 to 550 kJ/m3, conductivity from 0.29 to 0.8 S/m, and strain sensitivity (GF = 1.4-6.5). Moreover, the proposed organohydrogel exhibited excellent freezing tolerance. This study provides a facile yet powerful strategy to tune the mechanical and electrical properties of organohydrogels which can be adapted to various wearable sensors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syed Farrukh Alam Zaidi
- School of Advanced Materials Science and Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea; Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, University of Engineering and Technology, Lahore 39161, Pakistan
| | - Yun Ah Kim
- School of Advanced Materials Science and Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Aiman Saeed
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Nasir Sarwar
- School of Advanced Materials Science and Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea; Department of Textile Engineering, University of Engineering and Technology, Lahore (Faisalabad Campus) 38000, Pakistan
| | - Nae-Eung Lee
- School of Advanced Materials Science and Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea; SKKU Advanced Institute of Nanotechnology (SAINT), Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea; Biomedical Institute for Convergence at SKKU (BICS), Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea; Research Center for Advanced Materials Technology, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Dae Ho Yoon
- School of Advanced Materials Science and Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea; SKKU Advanced Institute of Nanotechnology (SAINT), Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Byungkwon Lim
- School of Advanced Materials Science and Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jung Heon Lee
- School of Advanced Materials Science and Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea; SKKU Advanced Institute of Nanotechnology (SAINT), Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea; Biomedical Institute for Convergence at SKKU (BICS), Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea; Research Center for Advanced Materials Technology, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea.
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