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Superhydrophilic Lubricating Loach Mucus-Methacryloylated Gelatin Hydrogel

  • 0MOE Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Synthesis and Functionalization, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
Macromolecular Rapid Communications +

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June 29, 2025

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June 29, 2025

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Loach mucus-gelatin methacryloyl hydrogels (MC-GelMA) significantly reduce vessel drag in seawater. These super-hydrophilic materials also offer antimicrobial properties, enhancing antifouling performance for maritime applications.

Area Of Science

  • Marine engineering
  • Biomaterials science
  • Tribology

Background

  • Seawater resistance impedes vessel speed and increases energy use.
  • Loaches exhibit super-lubricating properties due to their mucus.
  • Developing effective drag reduction strategies is crucial for maritime efficiency.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To investigate loach mucus (MC) for drag reduction applications.
  • To fabricate and characterize MC-methacrylated gelatin hydrogels (MC-GelMA).
  • To evaluate the drag reduction, super-hydrophilicity, and antimicrobial capabilities of MC-GelMA.

Main Methods

  • Extraction of loach mucus (MC).
  • Fabrication of MC-methacrylated gelatin hydrogels (MC-GelMA).
  • Testing of super-hydrophilicity (contact angle, swelling ratio), drag reduction rates on various surfaces, and antimicrobial activity (inhibition zones).

Main Results

  • MC-GelMA exhibited super-hydrophilic behavior (0° contact angle) and low swelling (<25%) in artificial seawater.
  • Significant drag reduction rates were achieved: 53.6% (epoxy resin), 37.7% (aluminum alloy), 34.1% (stainless steel), and 77.2% (glass).
  • Ciprofloxacin-loaded MC-GelMA demonstrated potent antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli.

Conclusions

  • MC-GelMA shows exceptional potential for reducing vessel drag in marine environments.
  • The hydrogels' super-hydrophilicity and antimicrobial properties contribute to enhanced antifouling.
  • MC-GelMA offers a promising biomaterial solution for improving maritime vessel efficiency and sustainability.

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