Hydrogel fabrication techniques for advanced artificial sensory systems
Wonhee Gonga b, Jeongyeon Kima b, Chaeyoon Kima b, Hyewon Changa, Yejin Ahnb c, David V. Schafferd, Jieung Baeka b
- aDepartment of Mechanical and Biomedical Engineering, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 03760, Republic of Korea
- bGraduate Program in System Health Science and Engineering, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 03760, Republic of Korea
- cDepartment of Biological Sciences, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Republic of Korea
- dDepartment of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, United States of America
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Abstract
Abstract Artificial sensory systems, designed to emulate human senses like sight, touch, and hearing, have garnered significant attention for their potential to enhance human capabilities, improve human-machine interactions, and enable autonomous systems to better perceive their surroundings. Hydrogels, with their biocompatibility, flexibility, and water-rich polymer structure, are increasingly recognized as crucial materials in the development of these systems, especially in applications such as wearable sensors, artificial skin, and neural interfaces. This review explores various hydrogel fabrication techniques, including 3D bioprinting, electrospinning, and photopolymerization, which allow for the precise control of hydrogel properties like mechanical strength, flexibility, and conductivity. By tailoring these properties to mimic natural tissues, hydrogels offer transformative benefits in the creation of advanced, biocompatible, and durable sensory systems. We emphasize the importance of selecting appropriate fabrication methods to meet the specific functional requirements of artificial sensory applications, such as sensitivity to stimuli, durability, and ease of integration. This review further highlights the pivotal role of hydrogels in advancing future artificial sensory technologies and their broad potential in fields ranging from robotics to biomedical devices.