CoE/AE Mechanics Seminar

Professor Wei Zhai

Department of Mechanical Engineering | National University of Singapore (NUS)

"Strong and Tough Hydroge"

Mon., Feb. 3

2:00 - 3:00 p.m.

MRDC 4211

Abstract: 

Nature’s composite systems, such as collagen-based tissues, bamboo, and nacre, achieve remarkable strength, toughness, and multifunctionality through the integration of hierarchical structuring and composite synergy. Inspired by these designs, we present a framework for developing advanced hydrogel systems that incorporate hierarchical structuring across molecular to macroscopic scales to achieve superior mechanical and functional properties. Using freeze-casting-assisted solution substitution, we developed organo-hydrogels with tendon-inspired architectures that integrate molecular interactions, nanoscale fibril alignment, and microscale organization, validated through multiscale simulations. Bamboo-inspired nanofiber-reinforced hydrogels were created using a bottomup assembly strategy to replicate the balance of strength and flexibility observed in fibrous natural composites. Nacre-inspired ceramic-reinforced organo-hydrogels were fabricated using direct-ink-write 3D printing, where shear-induced alignment of ceramic platelets formed layered architectures with tunable mechanical performance and conductivity. By integrating nature’s design principles with advanced processing techniques, these hydrogel systems open new possibilities for the scalable development of materials in flexible electronics, robotics, and biomedical devices.