Temperature-resistant hydrogel wearable sensors and thermoelectric devices

Abstract

With the rapid advancements in biosensing and healthcare technology, traditional polymer and semiconductor sensors and electronic devices are increasingly unable to meet people's needs. As researchers delve deeper into the study of quasi-solid and flexible materials, hydrogel materials have gradually gained prominence. Hydrogels, characterized by their high flexibility, elasticity, and biocompatibility, have become one of the preferred materials for wearable, flexible sensors, and electronic devices. Furthermore, their promising thermoelectric properties and environmental friendliness make them highly suitable materials for quasi-solid thermoelectric devices. However, hydrogels still face challenges in terms of poor temperature resistance in cold and hot region, limiting their application across a wide temperature range. In this thesis, hydrogels with enhanced mechanical performance and conductivity, specifically PVA/TA/Chitin hydrogels, were synthesized. The introduction of an ionic liquid was used to improve the low-temperature resistance of these hydrogels, enabling their application as wearable, flexible sensors in low-temperature environments. Additionally, gelatin-based hydrogel thermoelectric cells were synthesized. Through the introduction and selection of soluble ions, the thermoelectric performance and heat resistance of these hydrogel thermoelectric cells were enhanced, potentially facilitating their use in high-temperature applications.