Robust, Sprayable, and Multifunctional Hydrogel Coating through a Polycation Reinforced (PCR) Surface Bridging...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Sprayable hydrogel coatings offer significant potential for various applications.
• Monomer hydration in hydrogels hinders uniform spraying and adhesion.
• Developing robust hydrogel coatings on diverse surfaces remains a challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a polycation-reinforced (PCR) surface bridging strategy for creating tough and sprayable hydrogel coatings.
• To overcome limitations associated with monomer hydration during hydrogel spraying.
• To demonstrate the adaptability and effectiveness of PCR hydrogel coatings on various materials and devices.

Main Methods:

• Utilized polycations for enhanced wettability and electrostatic interactions with plasma-treated substrates.
• Developed a surface bridging strategy to improve hydrogel adhesion.
• Applied the PCR method to diverse materials including PTFE and silicone, and to medical devices like cardiovascular stents.

Main Results:

• Achieved tough adhesion performance on inert materials like PTFE and silicone.
• Demonstrated remarkable shear strength (161 ± 49 kPa for PTFE) and interfacial toughness (198 ± 27 J m⁻² for PTFE).
• Showcased notable tolerance to cyclic tension (10,000 cycles, 200% strain on silicone) and applicability to various hydrogel formulations.

Conclusions:

• The PCR strategy effectively creates durable, sprayable hydrogel coatings on diverse and challenging surfaces.
• This approach enhances hydrogel adhesion and functionality, enabling applications in underwater adhesion, lubrication, and drug delivery.
• The simplicity and adaptability of the PCR method open avenues for novel hydrogel applications on solid surfaces and medical devices.