Mechanochromic Hydrogel Fibers with Multiple Fluorescent Colors

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Mechanochromic polymers change color under stress, useful for sensing and warning systems.
• Existing mechanochromic materials are typically films or bulk specimens.
• Mechanochromic fibers for smart fabrics are underdeveloped due to fabrication challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an efficient method for fabricating mechanochromic hydrogel fibers.
• To enable the creation of smart fabrics with stress-sensing capabilities.
• To explore methods for controlling fiber properties and color-changing abilities.

Main Methods:

• Photo-polymerization of microgel solutions within template tubes.
• Fabrication of hydrogel fibers with adjustable diameters (up to 1m length).
• Coating fibers with polymethacrylate (PMA) to enhance water retention and storage.

Main Results:

• Successfully produced visible and fluorescent mechanochromic hydrogel fibers.
• Demonstrated control over fiber diameter and mechanical properties via microgel concentration.
• Achieved multi-color fluorescent mechanochromic fibers using different microgel solutions.

Conclusions:

• A general and effective method for fabricating mechanochromic hydrogel fibers was established.
• The developed fibers show potential for smart textiles and advanced stress-sensing applications.
• This technique allows for tunable color-change properties and improved material stability.