Open Access

REVIEW

A Comprehensive Study on Application and Prospect of Hydrogel Detection Methods

Caixia Chen¹, Pengyu Liu¹, Changhua Wang¹, Yanyan Xie¹, Wei Wang^1,*, Xiaomin Kang^2,*

1 Guobiao (Beijing) Testing & Certification Co., Ltd., Beijing, 101400, China
2 School of Mechanical Engineering, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China

* Corresponding Authors: Wei Wang. Email: ; Xiaomin Kang. Email:

Journal of Polymer Materials 2025, 42(3), 621-660. https://doi.org/10.32604/jpm.2025.068852

Received 08 June 2025; Accepted 03 September 2025; Issue published 30 September 2025

Abstract

Due to their high water content, stimulus responsiveness, and biocompatibility, hydrogels, which are functional materials with a three-dimensional network structure, are widely applied in fields such as biomedicine, environmental monitoring, and flexible electronics. This paper provides a systematic review of hydrogel characterization methods and their applications, focusing on primary evaluation techniques for physical properties (e.g., mechanical strength, swelling behavior, and pore structure), chemical properties (e.g., composition, crosslink density, and degradation behavior), biocompatibility, and functional properties (e.g., drug release, environmental stimulus response, and conductivity). It analyzes the challenges currently faced by characterization methods, such as a lack of standardization, difficulties in dynamic monitoring, an insufficient micro-macro correlation, and poor adaptability to complex environments. It proposes solutions, such as a hierarchical standardization system, in situ imaging technology, cross-scale characterization, and biomimetic testing platforms. Looking ahead, hydrogel characterization techniques will evolve toward intelligent, real-time, multimodal coupling and standardized approaches. These techniques will provide superior technical support for precision medicine, environmental restoration, and flexible electronics. They will also offer systematic methodological guidance for the performance optimization and practical application of hydrogel materials.

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Keywords

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