A multi-functional zwitterionic hydrogel with unique micro-structure, high elasticity and low modulus

Owing to their tissue-like softness and low modulus, hydrogels minimize the mechanical mismatch with biological tissues and have received wide attention as biomaterials. However, the development of soft hydrogels is often limited by their brittleness. Here, an ultra-soft and tough hydrogel based on zwitterionic poly(sulfobetaine methacrylate) (PSBMA) was designed and successfully prepared. The obtained PSBMA hydrogel exhibits a unique spike-like micro-structure, low modulus, good stretchability and excellent compressive elasticity, due to the formation of a dual-crosslinking structure. The obtained hydrogel also possesses self-healing properties and electromechanical responses to tensile and compressive deformations. Moreover, the hydrogel has good compatibility attributed to its outstanding anti-protein-adsorption properties.