A Multifunctional, Antifreezing, and 3D ‐Printable Conductive Hydrogel Enabled by a Phytic Acid‐Based Synergistic Strategy for Wearable Strain Sensing

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Authors: Zhan Zihang, Yunchao Xiao, Li Yi, Hong Cao, Xi Man, Lianmei Liu, Jiang Yang
Cited by: 1
References: 42

Abstract

ABSTRACT Inspired by biological tissues, this study presents a “multidimensional network synergistic enhancement” strategy to fabricate a high‐performance composite hydrogel (PSPC) via a one‐pot, physically cross‐linked method. The material integrates a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and sodium alginate (SA) dual network, reinforced by cellulose nanofibers (CNF), Mg 2+ ions, and a multifunctional phytic acid (PA) phase. This synergistic design imparts remarkable mechanical properties, including high tensile strength (2.6 MPa) and toughness (4.6 MJ/m 3 ), alongside exceptional anti‐swelling (105%) and anti‐freezing (−29°C) capabilities. The inclusion of PA also affords high ionic conductivity (7.8 mS/cm), enabling the 3D printing of flexible sensors with high sensitivity (1% strain) and rapid response (400 ms) for physiological monitoring. This entirely physically cross‐linked hydrogel is also fully recyclable, offering a sustainable and novel material concept for advanced, customizable wearable devices.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Advanced Sensor and Energy Harvesting Materials Electrospun Nanofibers in Biomedical Applications Hydrogels: synthesis properties applications

Publication details

Journal / source
Polymer Engineering and Science
Publisher
Wiley
Volume
66
Issue
7
Pages
4804–4815
Publication date
29 April 2026
Language
EN