Anisotropic stimuli-responsive hydrogel enabling tunable electromagnetic interference shielding and strain sensing

Smart hydrogels demonstrate promising applications in flexible electromagnetic interference shielding and sensing, but integrating multiple functions with long-term stability remains challenging. To meet the multifunctional and intelligent requirements of wearable electronics, a strategy that combines macrostructural ordering with molecular-level binary solvent interactions to develop an intelligent hydrogel is proposed. A temperature-responsive hydrogel (PMDO) was designed with T-MXene and Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)-poly(styrenesulfonate) conductive network, biomimetic directional arrangement structure and channels formed by an EG/water binary solvent. Compared with isotropic hydrogels, the strain and tensile strength of PMDO were enhanced by approximately 363% and 2780%, respectively, along with low hysteresis, strong fatigue resistance, adhesion, and long-term stability. As a smart electromagnetic shielding material, it demonstrates strain sensitivity (30 to 7.5 dB) and cyclic stability. Furthermore, the hydrogel-based strain sensor can track real-time movements, facial expressions, and convey information via Morse code. Notably, the soft gripper constructed from the self-sensing hydrogel actuator can remotely grasp, lift and release objects via light control, with motion state feedback provided through resistance signal changes. This study offers an effective strategy for the application of multifunctional flexible materials in motion monitoring, electromagnetic protection, and remote healthcare, showcasing broad application prospects.