Work

Protocol for the fabrication and application of a low-water-content polyelectrolyte hydrogel

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Hydrogels are prone to dehydration over prolonged use, leading to changes in their properties. Inspired by the human skin’s stratum corneum, we present a protocol for the fabrication and application of a low-water-content polyelectrolyte hydrogel (L-hydrogel) that maintains mechanical and electrical properties over time. We describe steps for preparing a hygroscopic monomer through an ionic exchange reaction and a low-water-content hydrogel by UV crosslinking reaction and testing the material behaviors of L-hydrogel. We then detail procedures for preparing and testing L-hydrogel-based devices. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Shen et al. 1 • Protocol to fabricating L-hydrogel • Instructions for testing material behaviors of L-hydrogel • Steps for preparing and testing soft ionotronic devices based on L-hydrogel Publisher’s note: Undertaking any experimental protocol requires adherence to local institutional guidelines for laboratory safety and ethics. Hydrogels are prone to dehydration over prolonged use, leading to changes in their properties. Inspired by the human skin’s stratum corneum, we present a protocol for the fabrication and application of a low-water-content polyelectrolyte hydrogel (L-hydrogel) that maintains mechanical and electrical properties over time. We describe steps for preparing a hygroscopic monomer through an ionic exchange reaction and a low-water-content hydrogel by UV crosslinking reaction and testing the material behaviors of L-hydrogel. We then detail procedures for preparing and testing L-hydrogel-based devices.

Source: STAR Protocols

DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2025.103713