Hofmeister Effect-Assisted Facile One-Pot Fabrication of Double Network Organohydrogels with Exceptional Multi-Functions

Multi-functional hydrogels have gained attention for their potential as smart materials in diverse applications. However, most established design principles and fabrication methods are considered as convoluted and ineffective. Here, by using a simple one-pot and efficient method, a novel PAAm/Gelatin/Ammonium sulfate organohydrogel (PGAOH) with exceptional multifunctionality, including anti-freezing properties, excellent conductivity, remarkable stability, free-shapeable, sensitivity, elasticity, high transparency, and resistance to drying is developed. In this system, it is surprisingly discovered that in the presence of acrylamide molecules, gelatin can disperse well in high-concentration salting-out solutions, significantly shorten the preparation time for the gel, allows for precise control of gel volume. More importantly, acrylamide can form another polyacrylamide network, further enhancing the mechanical properties of the PGAOH. Additionally, the introduction of glycerol notably improved the environmental stability of the PGAOH and effectively enhanced its mechanical properties and transparency. These innovative combinations result in PGAOH possessing exceptional multifunctionality, demonstrated by its successful application in a wireless virtual reality (VR) gaming device.