Hydrogels with Improved Cohesion and Ionic Conductivity via SBMA and Acrylic Acid Copolymerization and CMC Integration for Sensor Applications

This study presents the synthesis of hydrogels by copolymerizing sulfobetaine methacrylate (SBMA) with acrylic acid (AA) using UV crosslinking to improve the cohesive strength and functional properties. Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) was added to further improve the physical properties of the hydrogel. Metal salts were incorporated to modify the ionic conductivity. The physical and electrical properties of the hydrogels were evaluated by tensile tests, 90° peel strength tests, and ionic conductivity tests. The SBMA-AA copolymer showed significant mechanical strength and durability, while the addition of CMC reinforced the network structure, improving cohesion and overall material properties. Metal salts improved ionic conductivity, which is essential for sensor applications. Adhesion tests on pig skin showed that the hydrogels provided self-adhesion and stable sensor performance. These results highlight the potential of SBMA-AA copolymer hydrogels with CMC for use in high-performance biomaterials and various biomedical applications.