Biphasic Synergistic Gel Materials with Switchable Mechanics and Self‐Healing Capacity

Abstract

A fabrication strategy for biphasic gels is reported, which incorporates high-internal-phase emulsions. Closely packed micro-inclusions within the elastic hydrogel matrix greatly improve the mechanical properties of the materials. The materials exhibit excellent switchable mechanics and shape-memory performance because of the switchable micro- inclusions that are incorporated into the hydrogel matrix. The produced materials demonstrated a self-healing capacity that originates from the noncovalent effect of the biphasic heteronetwork. The aforementioned characteristics suggest that the biphasic gels may serve as ideal composite gel materials with validity in a variety of applications, such as soft actuators, flexible devices, and biological materials.

Dextran‐based hydrogel with enhanced mechanical performance via covalent and non‐covalent cross‐linking units carrying adipose‐derived stem cells toward vascularized bone tissue engineering

“…However, toward tissue engineering, the application of most currently practiced tough hydrogels are limited. Because many tough hydrogels are often designed based on non‐degradable polymers, such as polyacrylic acid derivatives . Since the formation and development of neo‐tissue requires ample space for cells to secrete extracellular matrix, developing biodegradable tough hydrogels are of great importance.…”

“…Normally, the hydrophilic nature make hydrogels fail to provide the sufficient mechanical support during load‐bearing tissue regeneration . Introduction of hydrophobic polymer was reported to be an effective method to improve the mechanical properties of hydrogels . Most currently practiced high strength hydrogels were fabricated by combining the strong networks with pre‐formed hydrophobic micelles .…”

“…8 Introduction of hydrophobic polymer was reported to be an effective method to improve the mechanical properties of hydrogels. 14,30,31 Most currently practiced high strength hydrogels were fabricated by combining the strong networks with pre-formed hydrophobic micelles. 15 Normally, the hydrophobic association based on physical interaction is relatively weak but unconstrained, so to dissipate energy through deformation or disintegration.…”

Inorganic Salts Induce Thermally Reversible and Anti‐Freezing Cellulose Hydrogels

“…[1] Thel iquid-like transport behavior and solid-like mechanical properties make hydrogels suitable for diverse applications. [3] However,when the temperature falls below the freezing point of water (0 8 8C), the majority of hydrogels composed of hydrophilic polymers inevitably freeze. [3] However,when the temperature falls below the freezing point of water (0 8 8C), the majority of hydrogels composed of hydrophilic polymers inevitably freeze.…”

“…[2] Recently,h ydrogels have been emerged as desirable materials for wearable devices,flexible electrodes,t issue engineering,w ound dressings,a nd drug delivery owing to their good toughness,optical transparency, and high conductivity. [3] However,when the temperature falls below the freezing point of water (0 8 8C), the majority of hydrogels composed of hydrophilic polymers inevitably freeze. [4] Thehydrogels become fragile and lose their pristine elasticity.T herefore,there is an urgent need to develop antifreezing hydrogels that can be used under ab road range of temperatures.…”