Tuning the response of fluid filled hydrogel core–shell structures

Hydrogels are hydrophilic polymer networks that swell upon submersion in water. Thanks to their bio-compatibility, compliance, and ability undergo large deformations, hydrogels can be used a wide variety of applications such as situ sensors for measuring cell-generated forces drug delivery vehicles. In this work we investigate the equilibrium mechanical responses achieved with hydrogel-based shells filled liquid core. Two types gel shell geometries considered - cylinder spherical shell. Each is either water or oil subjected compressive loading. We illustrate influence geometry core composition on response structure. find all core–shell structures stiffen under increasing loading due load-induced expulsion molecules from hydrogel Furthermore, show cylindrical configurations stiffer then equivalents. Interestingly, demonstrate compression structure an aqueous leads transportation into hydrogel. These results will guide design novel tunable properties responses.