journal article·2025-03Open access

Multi‐Solvent‐Induced Gradient Aggregation Rendered Superstrong, Tough, Stretchable, and Fatigue‐Resistant Lignin‐Based Supramolecular Hydrogels

Yihui Gu, Wenjuan Wu, Chaofeng Zhang, Xinrui Li, Xinyu Guo, Yilin Wang, Yufeng Yuan, Bo Jiang, Yongcan Jin

Advanced Functional Materials· Volume 35· Issue 11

Abstract

Abstract A hydrogel that is expected as a biomedical load‐bearing material remains a substantial challenge. In this work, a multi‐solvent‐induced gradient aggregation state strategy is developed to construct lignin‐based supramolecular hydrogels that feature superstrong, tough, stretchable, and fatigue‐resistant properties. The multi‐solvent high‐temperature annealing induces the gradient crystallization of polyvinyl alcohol and the self‐assembly of lignin. The interior strong hydrogen‐binding and the external weak non‐covalent‐binding forms a gradient aggregation state microstructure and compact macrostructure, where lignin acts as an interfacial molecular bridge. By sharing interconnection points to collaboratively dissipate energy, the developed hydrogels demonstrate high modulus (74.4 MPa), toughness (90 MJ m−3), tear (34,000 J m−2), tensile (24.8 MPa), and compressive strength (60 MPa). Moreover, such lignin‐based supramolecular hydrogels also exhibit extraordinary fatigue resistance, biocompatibility, and reactive oxygen species scavenging activity. This gradient non‐covalent conjoined‐network caused by multi‐solvent high‐temperature annealing provides a new design strategy and potential for developing biomaterials that mimic biomedical load‐bearing materials (e.g., natural tendons and ligaments).
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Research context

OpenAlex topics: Polymer composites and self-healing · Hydrogels: synthesis, properties, applications · Mesoporous Materials and Catalysis

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Affiliations

Jiangsu Co‐Innovation Center of Efficient Processing and Utilization of Forest Resources International Innovation Center for Forest Chemicals and Materials Nanjing Forestry University Nanjing 210037 China

Funding

National Natural Science Foundation of China · Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province · Jiangsu Provincial Key Research and Development Program · China Postdoctoral Science Foundation

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