Preparation of Dual-Network Hydrogels and Their Application in Flexible Electronics

Abstract

The rapid development of wearable technology has spurred considerable interest in hydrogels, which are hydrophilic three-dimensional polymer networks known for their remarkable flexibility. Nevertheless, their application in flexible electronics has been constrained by inferior mechanical and physical properties. As an emerging flexible material, dual-network hydrogels possess high mechanical strength, self-healing capability, excellent fatigue resistance, and electrical conductivity, showing great potential for use in flexible electronics. This article systematically reviews the design and performance optimization strategies of dual-network hydrogels. It reviews the advancements in their applications in flexible electronic devices, including bodily fluid biomarker sensors, flexible energy storage devices, health monitoring sensors, and physical motion sensors. The potential future challenges and opportunities for dual-network hydrogel materials are also discussed. This review aims to provide a theoretical foundation for developing next-generation dual-network hydrogels for flexible electronics and to promote their practical implementation in this field.