Novel functional hydrogels based on lignin‑silver nanoparticles with adhesion, antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-freezing properties for wound dressings and pressure strain sensors

As wound dressings and wearable electronics advance, it is critical to develop an efficacious strategy for integrating a variety of powerful functions into hydrogels. In this work, sodium lignosulfonate‑silver nanoparticles and the functional [2-(methacryloyloxy) ethyl] dimethyl-(3-sulfopropyl) ammonium hydroxide structure (SBMA) are introduced into the multifunctional lignin-based hydrogel system. The sodium lignosulfonate‑silver nanoparticles, by catalyzing multiple redox reactions, facilitate the swift curing of hydrogels at room temperature. This process is advantageous for the structural refinement of hydrogel polymer segments and the integration of multiple functionalities. The synergistic effect of functional structure and nanoparticles bestows the hydrogel with superior adhesion, mechanical properties, antimicrobial properties and antioxidant properties. The introduction of a functional structure not only deferments the release of sodium lignosulfonate‑silver nanoparticles, but also imparts satisfactory conductivity and anti-freezing properties to the hydrogels. In applications related to wound dressings and pressure strain sensors, hydrogels demonstrate excellent potential. They effectively facilitate wound healing and enable the monitoring of limb movement. This work introduces a simple and effective approach to prepare lignin-based functional hydrogels, exhibiting significant potential for wound dressings and pressure strain sensors applications.