Ultrathin and Ultrastrong Hydrogel Bioelectronic Membranes
This project is showcased in the fifth exhibition – Technologies and Innovations.
Principal Investigator: Professor Lizhi XU ( Assistant Professor from Department of Mechanical Engineering)
About the scholar
Professor Lizhi XU
Research interests:
Biomimetic Materials, Biomedical Devices, Soft Electronics, Micro-/Nano-Fabrication.
Email:xulizhi@hku.hk
Website: https://www.xulizhi.hku.hk
Project information
Developing a novel class of ultrathin and strong hydrogels (UTSHs) that address critical challenges in implantable bioelectronics. Create mechanically robust yet highly flexible bioelectronic membranes that seamlessly integrate with soft 3D organs. Bridges the gap between soft tissues and electronic systems, paving the way for next-generation bioelectronic devices with transformative applications in healthcare and medical technology.
Novelty
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Ultrathin Hydrogel-Based Membrane Bioelectronics. The use of hydrogels allows the development of materials that closely mimic the mechanical properties of soft biological tissues, such as the brain, heart, and peripheral nerves. The prototype demonstrates a combination of outstanding mechanical strength and toughness while maintaining an ultrathin profile, which is essential for seamless integration with soft, deformable tissues.
- Biomimetic Design. The materials are designed to mimic natural biological membranes, utilizing self-assembled microfibrillar networks that provide load-bearing characteristics and non-linear mechanical responses, ensuring a balance between stretchability and robustness.
- Multifunctional Bioelectronic Interfaces. The hydrogel-based membranes enable the integration of conducting polymers and wafer-fabricated electronics, facilitating the creation of multifunctional bioelectronic devices suitable for applications like brain-machine interfaces, and peripheral nerve interfaces.
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