Abstract
Hydrogel-based bio-inks have been extensively used for developing three-dimensional (3D) printed biomaterials for biomedical applications. However, poor mechanical performance and the inability to conduct electricity limit their application as wearable sensors. In this work, we formulate a novel, 3D printable electro-conductive hydrogel consisting of silicate nanosheets (Laponite), graphene oxide, and alginate. The result generated a stretchable, soft, but durable electro-conductive material suitable for utilization as a novel electro-conductive bio-ink for the extrusion printing of different biomedical platforms, including flexible electronics, tissue engineering, and drug delivery. A series of tensile tests were performed on the material, indicating excellent stability under significant stretching and bending without any conductive or mechanical failures. Rheological characterization revealed that the addition of Laponite enhanced the hydrogel’s mechanical properties, including stiffness, shear-thinning, and stretchability. We also illustrate the reproducibility and flexibility of our fabrication process by extrusion printing various patterns with different fiber diameters. Developing an electro-conductive bio-ink with favorable mechanical and electrical properties offers a new platform for advanced tissue engineering.
Highlights
Published: 27 November 2021Engineered materials that can imitate native tissue properties are promising tools for treating a wide variety of clinical problems in patients and for use in research labs
We report a novel silicate-based conductive bio-ink composed of alginate, Laponite, and rGo
Chemical oxidation is commonly used to form the necessary covalent bonds to produce graphene oxide, which is readily dispersible in water in strongly alkaline conditions [47,48]
Summary
Published: 27 November 2021Engineered materials that can imitate native tissue properties are promising tools for treating a wide variety of clinical problems in patients and for use in research labs. Hydrogels engineered to be conductive can be used to produce flexible, biocompatible sensors for the in vivo recording of bio-signals and biomolecules, or in tissue engineering applications [1]. Designing hydrogels capable of generating the desired three-dimensional (3D) structures with the necessary physical properties, while being biocompatible and scalable, is nontrivial. 3D printing technology is ideal for the intensive manufacturing of these structures for in vivo and in vitro applications [2,3]. Electroconductive structures are essential for the bioengineering of electro-activated tissues such as cardiac and muscle tissues. Electroconductive microstructures can be Publisher’s Note: MDPI stays neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and institutional affiliations
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
