Two-Dimensional Nanomaterials in Hydrogels and Their Potential Bio-Applications

Hydrogels with high hydrophilicity and excellent biocompatibility have been considered as potential candidates for various applications, including biomimetics, sensors and wearable devices. However, their high water content will lead to poor load-bearing and high friction. Currently, two-dimensional (2D) materials have been widely investigated as promising nanofillers to improve the mechanical and lubrication performances of hydrogels because of their unique physical–chemical properties. On one hand, 2D materials can participate in the cross-linking of hydrogels, leading to enhanced load-bearing capacity and fatigue resistance, etc.; on the other hand, using 2D materials as nanofillers also brings unique biomedical properties. The combination of hydrogels and 2D materials shows bright prospects for bioapplications. This review focusses on the recent development of high-strength and low-friction hydrogels with the addition of 2D nanomaterials. Functional properties and the underlying mechanisms of 2D nanomaterials are firstly overviewed. Subsequently, the mechanical and friction properties of hydrogels with 2D nanomaterials including graphene oxide, black phosphorus, MXenes, boron nitride, and others are summarized in detail. Finally, the current challenges and potential applications of using 2D nanomaterials in hydrogel, as well as future research, are also discussed.