Hokkaido University scientists have created a new range of hydrogel composites that can be combined in a material that is five times stronger than carbon steel. The method involves adding soft hydrophilic polymer chains to miniscule glass fibres to create a tensile and tough material. The resulting composite hydrogel is 25 times stronger than glass fibre fabric and 100 times stronger than normal hydrogels. The material is environmentally friendly, being up to 90 percent water, and could be used in artificial tendons and ligaments.
Hokkaido University scientists have created a new range of hydrogel composites that can be combined in a material that is five times stronger than carbon steel. The method involves adding soft hydrophilic polymer chains to miniscule glass fibres to create a tensile and tough material. The resulting composite hydrogel is 25 times stronger than glass fibre fabric and 100 times stronger than normal hydrogels. The material is environmentally friendly, being 40% water, and could be used in artificial tendons and ligaments.