Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 16, 2026

Printing Thermoresponsive Reverse Molds for the Creation of Patterned Two-component Hydrogels for 3D Cell Culture
Published on: July 10, 2013
Multiscale hierarchical design of tough hydrogels: from natural to biomimetic
Rui Xie1, Yang Yang1, Yixuan Zhang1
1Guangxi Key Laboratory of Clean Pulp & Papermaking and Pollution Control, School of Light Industry and Food Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, P. R. China. lupeng-1984@163.com.
Abstract:
Many natural biological hydrogels, such as tendons, skin, cartilage, etc., are extremely tough, which is also a crucial merit for versatile applications of artificial hydrogels. Natural tough hydrogels serve as a vital source of inspiration for developing synthetic counterparts. This review begins with six representative examples of tough natural hydrogels. A thorough discussion of their unique structures and material compositions leads to the reasoning of toughness from the perspective of multiscale hierarchical design: based on the effective control of materials and structures at the molecular-nano-micro scales, as well as synergistic interactions between the different hierarchical scales. Following these design principles, we summarize the design strategies for biomimetic tough hydrogels, and the latest advanced applications of biomimetic tough hydrogels are further explored. Finally, it concludes by discussing the current challenges and prospects concerning the fabrication and application of biomimetic hydrogels.
More Related Videos
10:55Construction of Modular Hydrogel Sheets for Micropatterned Macro-scaled 3D Cellular Architecture
Published on: January 11, 2016
12:07Fabricating Degradable Thermoresponsive Hydrogels on Multiple Length Scales via Reactive Extrusion, Microfluidics, Self-assembly, and Electrospinning
Published on: April 16, 2018
Related Concept Videos
Design Example: Sustainability in Concrete Building
There are multiple approaches to achieve sustainability in a commercial concrete building. For instance, construct a concrete parking area under the building, utilizing pervious concrete paver blocks in open areas to facilitate rainwater collection through an underground cistern.
Design Example: Maintaining Level of an Embankment
Design Example: Designing Water Slide
Bernoulli's principle determines the water's velocity along the slide.