Integrated Hydrophilic Interdigitated Network for Silicone Rubber via a Gradient Polarity Modification Strategy

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Biomedical Engineering
• Polymer Chemistry

Background:

• Hydrophilic flexible functional materials are crucial for advanced electronics and medical devices.
• Silicone rubber (SR) offers excellent flexibility and biocompatibility but suffers from hydrophobicity, limiting its functionalization.
• Existing methods struggle to modify SR's bulk properties effectively.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a universal in situ modification strategy for silicone rubber (SR).
• To create a hydrophilic, lubricative, and mechanically robust SR material.
• To demonstrate the applicability of the modified SR in medical devices and sensing.

Main Methods:

• A
• gradient polarity modification
• concept was employed to create a polarity transition ladder.
• SR was modified in situ using quaternary ammonium and zwitterionic compounds.
• The modified SR was characterized for hydrophilicity, lubrication, mechanical properties, and responsiveness.

Main Results:

• Achieved persistent bulk hydrophilicity and remarkable aqueous lubrication in SR.
• Maintained the mechanical robustness of the silicone rubber.
• Successfully fabricated a lubricative/antibacterial catheter and demonstrated long-lasting lubrication.
• Showcased exceptional responsiveness for advanced sensing applications.

Conclusions:

• The gradient polarity modification strategy effectively overcomes SR hydrophobicity.
• The developed materials exhibit superior hydrophilic, lubricative, and robust properties.
• This method is highly designable, applicable to pre-formed SR devices, and shows potential in sensing.