SYNTHETIC POLYMER-BASED HYDROGELS AND PROPERTIES

Synthetic polymer-based hydrogels have emerged as versatile materials with tunable chemical, mechanical, and stimuli-responsive properties suitable for biomedical, environmental, and bioelectronic applications. Their ability to absorb significant amounts of water while maintaining structural integrity enables diverse uses ranging from drug delivery to neural interfaces. Recent advances in zwitterionic and hybrid hydrogels have addressed limitations such as brittleness, poor toughness, and low mechanical stability, enhancing functionality in load-bearing and adaptive biomedical contexts. This review summarizes the synthesis, properties, and applications of synthetic hydrogels, emphasizing strategies to improve mechanical robustness, electrical conductivity, and biocompatibility.