Superior stretchable and tough P(AA-co-AAm)/silica hybrid hydrogels enabled by acid-mediated radiation polymerization

The emerging stretchable and tough hydrogels find their extraordinary contributions in widespread use. However, the applicability of existing tough hydrogels in harsh environments like highly acidic stomachs has remained a challenge. Here, we develop superior stretchable and tough P(AA-co-AAm)/SiO2 hybrid hydrogels through radiation-induced polymerization and crosslinking in the presence of acids. The performance of the nanocomposite gels was optimized by altering fabrication variables including acid concentration, monomer composition and absorbed dose. The mechanic tests show that the protonated hybrid hydrogels displayed a high elongation at break (1919%), fracture strength (117 kPa), and compressive strength at 50% strain (126 kPa). These values are superior to those of conventional polyelectrolyte hydrogels and expect to significantly broaden the application. The proposed strategy is quite general and offers an alternative strategy to develop tough hydrogels.