Mechanically Interlocked Hydrogel-Elastomer Strain Sensor with Robust Interface and Enhanced Water-Retention Capacity.
Gels
; 8(10)2022 Sep 30.
Article
en En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-36286126
ABSTRACT
Hydrogels are stretchable ion conductors that can be used as strain sensors by transmitting strain-dependent electrical signals. However, hydrogels are susceptible to dehydration in the air, leading to a loss of flexibility and functions. Here, a simple and general strategy for encapsulating hydrogel with hydrophobic elastomer is proposed to realize excellent water-retention capacity. Elastomers, such as polydimethylsiloxanes (PDMS), whose hydrophobicity and dense crosslinking network can act as a barrier against water evaporation (lost 4.6 wt.% ± 0.57 in 24 h, 28 °C, and ≈30% humidity). To achieve strong adhesion between the hydrogel and elastomer, a porous structured thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) is used at the hydrogel-elastomer interface to interlock the hydrogel and bond the elastomer simultaneously (the maximum interfacial toughness is over 1200 J/m2). In addition, a PDMS encapsulated ionic hydrogel strain sensor is proposed, demonstrating an excellent water-retention ability, superior mechanical performance, highly linear sensitivity (gauge factor = 2.21, at 100% strain), and robust interface. Various human motions were monitored, proving the effectiveness and practicability of the hydrogel-elastomer hybrid.
Texto completo:
1
Colección:
01-internacional
Base de datos:
MEDLINE
Idioma:
En
Revista:
Gels
Año:
2022
Tipo del documento:
Article
País de afiliación:
China
Pais de publicación:
CH
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SUIZA
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SUÍÇA
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SWITZERLAND