Hydrogels

last updated 2026-05-04 · +2 sources in last 30d

Physics / mechanism

Competitive landscape

Competing material classes include elastomers (silicones, polyurethanes—higher mechanical strength, no hydration requirement), aerogels (ultra-low density, structural but non-aqueous), and cryogels (macroporous, suited for cell scaffolding). In drug delivery, lipid nanoparticles and polymeric micelles compete on encapsulation efficiency. In wearables/bioelectronics, ionic liquids and conducting polymers (PEDOT:PSS) are direct alternatives. Organogels occupy a niche where aqueous instability is prohibitive.

Companies using

Connected ideas

Sources

Frontier (open questions)