Synthesis strategy and application of multifunctional antifreeze hydrogels

Abstract

Hydrogels, renowned for their exceptional mechanical properties, superior swelling capacity, excellent biocompatibility, and notable ionic conductivity, have demonstrated significant potential across diverse fields, including biomedicine, the food industry, and flexible electronics. However, conventional hydrogels face a significant limitation in cold environments: the internal water within these materials tends to freeze at low temperatures. This freezing process not only compromises the structural integrity of the hydrogels but also drastically reduces their performance, severely limiting their utility in cold environments. As a result, the development of antifreeze hydrogels has become a critical area of research. These advanced hydrogels are designed to effectively inhibit the formation and growth of ice crystals, enabling them to maintain optimal performance even under low-temperature conditions. This article provides a comprehensive and in-depth review of the current research progress on antifreeze hydrogels, meticulously analyzing their antifreeze mechanisms and synthesis strategies. Furthermore, we systematically discuss the unique properties of antifreeze hydrogels and their specific applications across various fields. Finally, we present insights into the current challenges and future directions for the development of antifreeze hydrogels.