MXene-based composite hydrogel with synergistic crosslinking networks for multimodal wearable sensors

Flexible wearable sensors with multimodal sensing capabilities are urgently needed for personalized health monitoring and human–machine interaction. However, integrating high stretchability, excellent conductivity, and multiple stimulus responsiveness into a single hydrogel remains challenging. Herein, we develop a multifunctional MXene-based composite hydrogel PABSM (PVA, acrylic acid, borax, sodium alginate, and MXene) via one-pot free radical polymerization, incorporating poly(vinyl alcohol), acrylic acid, sodium alginate, bacterial cellulose, borax, and MXene nanosheets. The hydrogel features a synergistic crosslinking network comprising dynamic borate ester bonds, covalent crosslinks, hydrogen bonding, and electrostatic interactions. The PABSM hydrogel exhibits outstanding mechanical properties, high conductivity (1.27 S/m), and multimodal sensing capabilities, including strain sensitivity (gauge factor up to 1.96 over 0–1400 % strain) and thermal sensitivity (negative temperature coefficient of − 4.72 %/°C, R 2 = 0.995 ). The sensor demonstrates rapid response/recovery times (170 ms for pressure, 11 s/8.6 s for temperature), excellent cycling stability over 1000 cycles, and reliable monitoring of human motions including finger bending, wrist movement, knee flexion, and vocalization, with good biocompatibility. These properties position the PABSM hydrogel as a promising platform for wearable health monitoring, soft robotics, and human–machine interfaces.