Ultrasoft Yet Tough Multifunctional Organohydrogels Enabled by Molecular Chain Lubrication Strategy for Self-Powered...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Flexible triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) show potential for wearable electronics.
• Integrating toughness, stretchability, and multifunctionality in hydrogels is challenging.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a multifunctional supramolecular organohydrogel (AQGL) with enhanced mechanical and functional properties.
• To overcome the stiffness-toughness trade-off in hydrogels for advanced applications.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a molecular chain lubrication strategy with glycerol/water clusters.
• Engineered a HAPAA/QCS/LiCl gel network (AQL) for modulated polymer interactions.
• Investigated the mechanical, optical, environmental, and electrical properties of the AQGL.

Main Results:

• Achieved ultrahigh stretchability (5800%), ultralow Young's modulus (14.3 kPa), high toughness (11.77 MJ/m³), and fracture energy (75.96 kJ/m²).
• Demonstrated excellent optical transparency (~95%), environmental durability (-40°C), anti-icing, antibacterial activity, conductivity, and self-healing.
• AQGL as a TENG electrode showed strong interfacial stability and excellent electrical output for motion monitoring and energy harvesting.

Conclusions:

• The molecular chain lubrication strategy enables the design of soft, tough, and multifunctional organohydrogels.
• AQGL advances the development of self-powered epidermal electronics and intelligent wearable devices.