TY  - EJOU
AU  - Wu, Kunlin 
AU  - Xiao, Jingcheng 
AU  - Li, Junwei 
AU  - Wang, Yifan 

TI  - 3D Printed Hydrogels for Soft Robotic Applications
T2  - Journal of Polymer Materials

PY  - 2025
VL  - 42
IS  - 2
SN  - 0976-3449

AB  - The integration of 3D-printed hydrogels in soft robotics enables the creation of flexible, adaptable, and biocompatible systems. Hydrogels, with their high-water content and responsiveness to stimuli, are suitable for actuators, sensors, and robotic systems that require safe interaction and precise manipulation. Unlike traditional techniques, 3D printing offers enhanced capabilities in tailoring structural complexity, resolution, and integrated functionality, enabling the direct fabrication of hydrogel systems with programmed mechanical and functional properties. In this perspective, we explore the evolving role of 3D-printed hydrogels in soft robotics, covering their material composition, fabrication techniques, and diverse applications. We highlight advancements in hydrogel-based actuators, sensors, and robots, emphasizing their ability to perform intricate motions. In addition, we discuss challenges like mechanical robustness, scalability, and integration as well as the potential of hydrogels in soft robotics and explore future directions for their development.
KW  - Hydrogels; 3D printing; soft robotics; soft actuators; soft robots; soft sensors

DO  - 10.32604/jpm.2025.065269