Polyacrylamide–Gelatin–MXene Composite Hydrogels with Interpenetrating Network Structures for Human Movement Monitoring

Abstract

Hydrogel materials containing gelatin can improve the biocompatibility and biodegradability of sensing materials, so they can be widely used in flexible sensors, health monitoring, and smart electronic devices. In this paper, using gelatin as a biomass-based material, the interpenetrating network structure formed between gelatin and polyacrylamide could not only improve the strong stretchability and flexibility of hydrogel but also provide more binding sites for conductive materials. Then, the polyacrylamide–gelatin MXene hydrogel (PGMH) sensor with excellent sensing performance and tensile strength was prepared by introducing MXene into the polyacrylamide–gelatin network structure. In addition to enhancing the mechanical properties of the hydrogel, the electrical conductivity and sensing properties are effectively improved as a wearable electronic device; the breathability of the hydrogel sensing material can ensure its adequate wear safety and comfort. Importantly, its biomass-based feedstock also gives it excellent stability and comfort to use. The designed hydrogel sensor has good stability and wide applicability and has great application potential in the next generation of degradable wearable electronic devices.