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Multi-layered marble for hydrogel encapsulation
Hyeonjin Kim1, Se Youn Jang2, Ji Eun Lee1
1Department of Chemical Engineering, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
Nature Communications
|March 24, 2026
Summary
Inspired by fruit skins, a new multi-layered marble (MLM) encapsulation stabilizes hydrogels. This technique overcomes interfacial instability, preserving hydrogel functionality for diverse applications.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Biomimicry
- Surface Chemistry
Background:
- Hydrophobic fruit skins protect against dehydration and environmental stress.
- Hydrophobic encapsulation preserves hydrogel functionality but faces interfacial instability challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a robust hydrogel encapsulation strategy that stabilizes the hydrophobic shell-hydrogel interface.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a liquid marble concept for encapsulation.
- Formed interfacial bridges with hydrophobic particles to create a nonpolar liquid layer on the hydrogel.
- Deposited a secondary hydrophobic particle layer to yield a multi-layered marble (MLM) structure.
Main Results:
- Achieved stable encapsulation of various hydrogels and liquids.
- Demonstrated versatility in accommodating diverse structural configurations.
- Successfully maintained hydrogel performance and functionality post-encapsulation.
Conclusions:
- MLM-encapsulation provides a universal and robust solution for interfacial instability in hydrogel systems.
- This approach enhances the long-term stability and functionality of encapsulated hydrogels.
- The strategy is adaptable for a wide range of hydrogel applications.
