Structure and unique functions of anisotropic hydrogels comprising uniaxially aligned lamellar bilayers

Abstract

In this account, we provide an overview of unique anisotropic hydrogels comprising uniaxially aligned lamellar bilayers embedded in amorphous gel matrix. Owing to their unique structures, the lamellar gels exhibit many unique functions that cannot be obtained from conventional hydrogels featuring amorphous and isotropic structures. For example, the periodical multilayer structure having interlayer spacing of several hundreds of nanometers imparts beautiful structural colors to the gel that respond sensitively to mechanical and chemical stimuli, the water-impermeable nature of the bilayers imparts one-dimensional swelling and diffusion, and the hydrophobic association of the bilayers serves as sacrificial bonds to impart high mechanical strength and toughness during deformation. This work demonstrates the significant potential of hydrogel materials fabricated by introducing anisotropic ordered structures.