Mechanically robust, transparent, conductive hydrogels based on hydrogen bonding, ionic coordination interactions and electrostatic interactions for light-curing 3D printing

Abstract

Hydrogel molding, through the integration of conductive hydrogels with 3D printing technology, enables the attainment of exceptional structural precision and customization. Consequently, hydrogels based on 3D printing technology are getting increasing attention among researchers. This study devises a straightforward approach to facilitate conductive hydrogels for light-curing 3D printing via hydrogen bonding, ionic coordination interactions, and electrostatic interactions. The resulting polymer network synergistically functions to render printed conductive hydrogels with superior printability and remarkable physicochemical properties. The printed conductive hydrogels demonstrated significant transparency (76 %), impressive tensile strain (1079 %), breaking strength (0.58 MPa), and as well as adhesion properties. Furthermore, printed conductive hydrogels demonstrate outstanding strain response properties, translating human movements into electrical signals with reliable stability. These hydrogels, using 3D printing technology, exhibit a remarkable capacity for perceiving human movement with unparalleled stability. The fusion of light-curing 3D printing technology with conductive hydrogels showcases unparalleled precision and customization capabilities, with hydrogels functioning as wearable devices featuring distinct structures as strain sensors and displaying exceptional response behavior. The potential applications of these hydrogels in the realm of personalized wearable sensors are highly anticipated.