Vat Photopolymerization 3D Printing Hydrogels and Bionic Adhesive Devices: A Minireview

Abstract

AbstractVivid biological structures with reversible adhesive properties are widely found in nature. Although current biomimicking adhesion systems have attracted extensive attention, unmet challenges remain in terms of excellent adhesion preservation, precise structural fabrication, and good environmental compatibility. By combining advanced vat photopolymerization 3D printing technology with hydrogel materials with excellent environmental adaptability, bioinspired adhesion devices present satisfactory application prospects. Herein, a systematic overview of bioinspired hydrogel adhesion devices from the perspectives of material design, structural design, and fabrication is presented. First, the main types and application prospects of vat photopolymerization 3D printed hydrogels are introduced. Subsequently, the research progress on hydrogel‐based vat photopolymerized 3D printed bionic adhesion devices is detailed. Future developments, such as balancing unmet challenges and expected opportunities, in 3D printable multiscale bionic adhesive devices are presented.