Leeches-Inspired Hydrogel-Elastomer Integration Materials

Inspired by the functions of leeches, for the first time homogeneous materials integrating hydrogels and elastomers were achieved by free radical polymerization. 2-Methoxyethyl acrylate (MEA) was used as elastomer monomer and Pluronics functionalized with vinyl groups acted as cross-linkers to impart the hydrogel property to the materials. The resulting Pluronic/PMEA gels possess a swelling ratio of about 210% and good water-retaining ability. Compression tests of Pluronic/PMEA gels at swelling equilibrium state show a stress up to 1.6 MPa under 85% strain. The gels act as elastomer after dehydration. Uniaxial tensile fracture stress and the elongation reached 1200 kPa and 500%, respectively, and compression stress was above 22 MPa. Furthermore, the Pluronic/PMEA gels also show self-healing properties. Owing to the excellent mechanical performance in both wet and dry conditions, this hydrogel-elastomer integrated material may have potential applications in tissue engineering, soft robotics, and biomedical devices.

Abstract sourced from PubMed (NCBI) for the cited record. See the original publication for the authoritative version.

Inspired by the functions of leeches, for the first time homogeneous materials integrating hydrogels and elastomers were achieved by free radical polymerization.

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