A Metalgel with Liquid Metal Continuum Immobilized in Polymer Network

• DOI: 10.1002/adma.202409137
• Publication Date: 2024-10-25T05:33:31Z
• Authors: Jiacheng Wang; Tingting Ye; Yiding Jiao; Weitong Ren; Yiran Li; Xusong Li; Yiran Li; Dan Li; Fangyan Li; Yuanzhen Wang; Jie Song; Kuangyi Zou; Wei Mao; Ming Wu; Ruiyang Tan; Jiang Lu; Er He; Lie Wang; Hao Chen; Luhe Li; Qianming Li; Chenyu Bai; Rui Gao; Junye Ren; Wenfei Li; Yi Cao; Ye Zhang
• Keywords: Polymer network

Abstract Gels are formed by fluids that expand throughout the whole volume of 3D polymer networks. To unlock unprecedented properties, exploring new immobilized in networks is crucial. Here, a liquid metal‐polymer gel material termed “metalgel” introduced via fluid replacement strategy, featuring 92.40% vol metal as continuum interconnected nanoscale network. The unique structure endows metalgel with high electrical conductivity (up to 3.18 × 10 6 S·m ‒1 ), tissue‐like softness (Young's modulus low 70 kPa), and gas permeability (4.50 ‒22 m 2 ·s ·Pa ). Besides, demonstrates stability under extreme deformations, such being run over 4.5‐metric‐tonne truck, maintains its integrity various environments for up 180 days. immobilization high‐volume‐fraction realized electrostatic interactions further revealed. Potential applications diverse include soft electromagnetic shielding, hermetic sealing, stimulating/sensing electrodes implantable bioelectronics, underscoring broad applicability.