Development of Zwitterion-Based Functional Gels and Their Applications

Functional hydrogels are critical materials due to their unique physicochemical properties. This work presents the development of composite gels utilizing zwitterionic polymers for bioelectronics, wound care, and energy storage. 
First, advanced hydrogels were engineered by incorporating poly(sulfobetaine vinylimidazolium) (poly(SBVI)) that interacts with graphene, lignin, and MXene. A microwave-assisted strategy formed a conductive, self-healing poly(SBVI)-graphene hydrogel via cation-pi interactions, as well as sustainable lignin-zwitterionic hydrogels. A Hofmeister ion-assisted treatment also enabled uniform MXene dispersion within the network. These hydrogels exhibit tunable viscoelasticity that matches soft biological tissues, thereby mitigating contact-induced damage. With exceptional wet-tissue adhesion and stable conductivity, they serve as highly conformal extraneural electrodes, demonstrating excellent neuromodulation. Additionally, these biocompatible hydrogels significantly accelerate early-stage wound closure. 
Furthermore, zwitterionic gels present major advantages for aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs). Conventional in-situ gel polymer electrolytes (GPEs) require initiators and crosslinkers, triggering zinc corrosion and non-uniform ion transport. To resolve this, a zwitterionic polymer-based in situ GPE was developed that self-polymerizes at room temperature without initiators or crosslinkers. This novel electrolyte enhances uniform zinc plating and stripping. It achieved an exceptional symmetric cell lifespan exceeding 3,600 hours and validated excellent electrochemical stability without undesirable side reactions in full cells. 
Ultimately, these poly(SBVI) and zwitterionic-based composite gels offer a highly adaptable, multifunctional platform for advancing bioelectronics, smart therapeutics, and stable batteries.