Functional adhesive hydrogels for biological interfaces

Abstract

Abstract Hydrogel adhesives are extensively employed in biological interfaces such as epidermal flexible electronics, tissue engineering, and implanted device. The development of functional hydrogel adhesives is a critical, yet challenging task since combining two or more attributes that seem incompatible into one adhesive hydrogel without sacrificing the hydrogel's pristine capabilities. In this Review, we highlight current developments in the fabrication of functional adhesive hydrogels, which are suitable for a variety of application scenarios, particularly those that occur underwater or on tissue/organ surface conditions. The design strategies for a multifunctional adhesive hydrogel with desirable properties including underwater adhesion, self‐healing, good biocompatibility, electrical conductivity, and anti‐swelling are discussed comprehensively. We then discuss the challenges faced by adhesive hydrogels, as well as their potential applications in biological interfaces. Adhesive hydrogels are the star building blocks of bio‐interface materials for individualized healthcare and other bioengineering areas.

Keywords

• biological interfaces
• biological sensors
• hydrogel electronics
• soft materials
• tissue scaffolds