A Metalgel with Liquid Metal Continuum Immobilized in Polymer Network.
basic_science · Level V
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- Record sourced from PubMed, PMID 39449216.
- Also identified by DOI 10.1002/adma.202409137.
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Abstract
Gels are formed by fluids that expand throughout the whole volume of 3D polymer networks. To unlock unprecedented properties, exploring new fluids immobilized in polymer networks is crucial. Here, a new liquid metal-polymer gel material termed "metalgel" is introduced via fluid replacement strategy, featuring 92.40% <sub>vol</sub> liquid metal fluid as a continuum immobilized by interconnected nanoscale polymer network. The unique structure endows metalgel with high electrical conductivity (up to 3.18 × 10<sup>6</sup> S·m<sup>‒1</sup>), tissue-like softness (Young's modulus as low as 70 kPa), and low gas permeability (4.50 × 10<sup>‒22</sup> m<sup>2</sup>·s<sup>‒1</sup>·Pa<sup>‒1</sup>). Besides, metalgel demonstrates electrical stability under extreme deformations, such as being run over by a 4.5-metric-tonne truck, and maintains its integrity in various environments for up to 180 days. The immobilization of high-volume-fraction liquid metal fluid is realized by electrostatic interactions is further revealed. Potential applications for metalgel are diverse and include soft electromagnetic shielding, hermetic sealing, and stimulating/sensing electrodes in implantable bioelectronics, underscoring its broad applicability.