Preparation method of self-growing hydrogel using carbon nanotubes as initiator and hydrogel

Abstract

The present invention belongs to the technical field of hydrogel materials, and relates to a method for preparing a self-growing hydrogel using carbon nanotubes as initiators and a hydrogel. The method comprises constructing a mixed reaction system for hydrogel self-growth, wherein the mixed reaction system comprises a free radical initiator layer and a hydrogel self-growth solution layer arranged in sequence from bottom to top, wherein the free radical initiator layer comprises carbon nanotube powder, and the hydrogel self-growth solution layer comprises a hydrogel self-growth monomer, wherein the hydrogel self-growth monomer is a vinyl monomer or an acrylate monomer; the mixed reaction system is cultured under a constant temperature condition, so that the hydrogel self-growth monomer forms a hydrogel by self-growth under the action of the carbon nanotube powder. Based on the above method, the safety and universality of the preparation of self-growing hydrogels are improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention belongs to the technical field of hydrogel materials, and particularly relates to a method for preparing a self-growing hydrogel using carbon nanotubes as an initiator and the hydrogel. Background Art

[0002] Hydrogel materials are widely used in sensors, actuators, switches, robots, human-machine interfaces, wearable electronic devices, and biomedical engineering. However, most existing hydrogel preparation methods rely on traditional methods such as chemical synthesis, mechanical processing, or 3D printing, which cannot effectively simulate the self-growth characteristics of biomaterials. Although the self-healing, shape memory, and enhanced toughness functions in bionic smart materials improve material performance, they usually rely on complex preparation processes or external stimuli, and it is difficult to achieve self-growth during the preparation process.

[0003] At present, the self-growth of hydrogels is achieved by using liquid metals (such as gallium-indium alloys) as initiators. However, this type of initiator is liquid at the reaction temperature, which poses a risk of leakage and limits the choice of materials. This results in low universality of existing methods for preparing self-growing hydrogels. Summary of the invention

[0004] The embodiments of the present invention provide a method for preparing a self-growing hydrogel using carbon nanotubes as initiators and the hydrogel, which at least solve the problems in the related art of the risk of initiator leakage and limited material selection, resulting in low universality of the method for preparing a self-growing hydrogel.

[0005] According to a first aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a method for preparing a self-growing hydrogel using carbon nanotubes as an initiator, comprising:

[0006] Constructing a mixed reaction system for hydrogel self-growth, the mixed reaction system comprising a free radical initiator layer and a hydrogel self-growth solution layer arranged in sequence from bottom to top, the free radical initiator layer comprising carbon nanotube powder, the hydrogel self-growth solution layer comprising a hydrogel self-growth monomer, and the hydrogel self-growth monomer being a vinyl monomer or an acrylate monomer;

[0007] The mixed reaction system is cultured under a constant temperature condition, so that the hydrogel self-growing monomer forms a hydrogel by self-growth under the action of the carbon nanotube powder.

[0008] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the construction of a mixed reaction system for hydrogel self-growth includes:

[0009] Dissolving the hydrogel self-growth monomer in ultrapure water to obtain a uniform and transparent hydrogel self-growth monomer solution;

[0010] Adding the carbon nanotube powder into the hydrogel self-growing monomer solution to obtain a mixed solution of the carbon nanotube powder and the hydrogel self-growing monomer solution;

[0011] The mixed solution is subjected to a static stratification treatment to form a stable macroscopic interface between the carbon nanotube powder and the hydrogel self-growing monomer solution, so as to generate the free radical initiator layer and the hydrogel self-growing solution layer.

[0012] According to an embodiment of the present invention, subjecting the mixed solution to a static stratification process comprises:

[0013] The mixed solution is subjected to a static stratification treatment for a treatment time of 6 hours to 24 hours at a treatment temperature of 25°C.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the hydrogel self-growth monomer solution is a vinyl monomer aqueous solution, and the mass fraction of the vinyl monomer in the vinyl monomer aqueous solution is 17 wt. %~42 wt. %;

[0015] The vinyl monomer is one of acrylamide, acrylic acid, methacrylamide, N-isopropylacrylamide, N-phenylacrylamide, N-tert-butylacrylamide or diacetoneacrylamide.

[0016] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the hydrogel self-growth monomer solution is an acrylate monomer aqueous solution, and the mass fraction of the acrylate monomer in the acrylate monomer aqueous solution is 15 wt. %~30 wt. %;

[0017] The acrylic acid ester monomer is one of 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate or polyethylene glycol monomaleate.

[0018] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the carbon nanotube powder is one of single-walled carbon nanotubes or multi-walled carbon nanotubes, and the mass fraction of the carbon nanotube powder in the mixed solution is 0.05 wt. %~0.50 wt. %.

[0019] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the constant temperature condition is a constant temperature environment with a temperature range of 45°C to 70°C.

[0020] According to a second aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, a hydrogel is provided. The hydrogel is prepared according to the method for preparing a self-growing hydrogel using carbon nanotubes as an initiator as described in the first aspect.

[0021] According to the self-growing hydrogel preparation method with carbon nanotubes as initiators provided by the embodiment of the present invention, by using carbon nanotubes as initiators, the risk of initiator leakage is avoided, the range of material selection is increased, and the universality of the self-growing hydrogel preparation method is improved. Specifically, by using carbon nanotubes as free radical initiators and replacing traditional liquid metal initiators in powder form, a new self-growing hydrogel preparation system is constructed. This not only effectively avoids the risk of leakage of liquid metal initiators that may occur during the reaction process, but also improves the safety and practicality of the reaction system due to the stability and controllability of carbon nanotubes, helps to control the interfacial stability during the growth of hydrogels, so that the reaction can be carried out in a relatively mild and constant environment, ensuring the uniformity and structural integrity of the hydrogel material. In addition, by introducing carbon nanotubes, the range of selectable initiator materials is increased, and the flexibility and adaptability of the self-growing hydrogel preparation method are enhanced. In summary, the self-growing hydrogel preparation method provided by the embodiment of the present invention has achieved significant technological progress in reducing risks, expanding options and improving universality.

[0022] The details of one or more embodiments of the invention are set forth in the following drawings and description so that other features, objects, and advantages of the invention are more readily apparent. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] In order to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the following briefly introduces the drawings required for use in the embodiments or the prior art descriptions. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention, and for ordinary technicians in this field, other embodiments can be obtained based on these drawings without creative work.

[0024] Figure 1 A flow chart of a method for preparing a self-growing hydrogel using carbon nanotubes as an initiator provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 2 A flow chart of a method for constructing a mixed reaction system provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of different stages in the self-growth process of a poly (2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) hydrogel provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of different stages in the self-growth process of a polyacrylamide hydrogel provided in an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] Embodiments of the present embodiment will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Although certain embodiments of the present embodiment are shown in the accompanying drawings, it should be understood that the present embodiment can be implemented in various forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein, which are instead provided for a more thorough and complete understanding of the present embodiment. It should be understood that the drawings and embodiments of the present embodiment are only for exemplary purposes and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present embodiment.

[0029] The method for preparing self-growing hydrogels is a technology that uses a specific reaction system to enable the hydrogel material to achieve self-growth through its own reaction process without external high-energy input. This method usually involves mixing hydrogel self-growth monomers with initiators to form a stable mixed system. By adjusting environmental conditions, such as temperature and pH value, the hydrogel self-growth monomers undergo polymerization under the action of the initiator and gradually form a hydrogel with a three-dimensional network structure. This process can simulate the self-growth characteristics of certain materials in nature, so that the synthetic materials have better performance and application potential. The advantages of the self-growing hydrogel preparation method are its simplicity, controllability and flexibility, which can meet the specific needs of hydrogels in different application scenarios and are widely used in biomedicine, sensors, smart materials and other fields.

[0030] At present, the self-growing hydrogel preparation method usually uses liquid metal (such as gallium-indium alloy) as an initiator to achieve the self-growth of the hydrogel. This type of initiator is liquid at the reaction temperature, there is a risk of leakage, and the material selection is limited, resulting in low universality of the existing self-growing hydrogel preparation method. In order to avoid the risk of initiator leakage, increase the range of initiator material selection, and improve the universality of the self-growing hydrogel preparation method, the embodiment of the present invention provides a self-growing hydrogel preparation method and hydrogel using carbon nanotubes as initiators.

[0031] Figure 1 The present invention provides a flow chart of a method for preparing a self-growing hydrogel using carbon nanotubes as an initiator. Figure 1 As shown, the method includes the following steps.

[0032] Step S101, constructing a mixed reaction system for hydrogel self-growth, the mixed reaction system includes a free radical initiator layer and a hydrogel self-growth solution layer arranged in sequence from bottom to top, the free radical initiator layer includes carbon nanotube powder, the hydrogel self-growth solution layer includes hydrogel self-growth monomers, and the hydrogel self-growth monomers are vinyl monomers or acrylate monomers.

[0033] Step S102, culturing the mixed reaction system under a constant temperature condition, so that the hydrogel self-growing monomer forms a hydrogel by self-growth under the action of the carbon nanotube powder.

[0034] First, a mixed reaction system for hydrogel self-growth is constructed. In this embodiment, the mixed reaction system includes a free radical initiator layer and a hydrogel self-growth solution layer arranged in sequence from bottom to top.

[0035] The mixed reaction system of the embodiment of the present invention is composed of a free radical initiator layer containing carbon nanotube powder and a hydrogel self-growth solution layer containing hydrogel self-growth monomers. This layered structure can keep the mixed reaction system stable at the beginning of the reaction, and determine the controllability and stability of the hydrogel during the self-growth process.

[0036] In this embodiment, the free radical initiator layer includes carbon nanotube powder, the hydrogel self-growth solution layer includes hydrogel self-growth monomers, and the hydrogel self-growth monomers are vinyl monomers or acrylate monomers.

[0037] As an initiator, carbon nanotubes can promote polymerization reactions with their good conductivity and chemical stability. Vinyl monomers or acrylate monomers are used as the basic building blocks of hydrogels, which can form hydrogels with three-dimensional network structures through polymerization reactions through carbon nanotubes under appropriate conditions.

[0038] After constructing a mixed reaction system for hydrogel self-growth, the mixed reaction system can be cultured under constant temperature conditions, so that the hydrogel self-growth monomers form hydrogels through self-growth under the action of carbon nanotube powder.

[0039] In this embodiment, the mixed reaction system is cultured within a specific temperature range to ensure the effectiveness of the polymerization reaction and the formation of the hydrogel. The introduction of carbon nanotubes enables the hydrogel self-growing monomers to polymerize through a self-growth mechanism under the action of carbon nanotubes, thereby forming a hydrogel material with specific properties. This process not only simulates the self-growth characteristics of nature, but also increases the diversity and functionality of the hydrogel.

[0040] In an optional embodiment, the constant temperature condition is a constant temperature environment with a temperature range of 45° C. to 70° C. In practical applications, within the above temperature range, suitable temperature conditions can be provided for the self-growth of the hydrogel. Moreover, under the constant temperature environment, the chemical reaction can be stably carried out, thereby improving the self-growth effect of the hydrogel.

[0041] Figure 2 A flow chart of a method for constructing a mixed reaction system provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 As shown, the method includes the following steps.

[0042] Step S201, dissolving hydrogel self-growth monomers in ultrapure water to obtain a uniform and transparent hydrogel self-growth monomer solution.

[0043] Step S202, adding carbon nanotube powder into the hydrogel self-growth monomer solution to obtain a mixed solution of the carbon nanotube powder and the hydrogel self-growth monomer solution.

[0044] Step S203 , subjecting the mixed solution to a static stratification treatment, so as to form a stable macroscopic interface between the carbon nanotube powder and the hydrogel self-growing monomer solution, so as to generate a free radical initiator layer and a hydrogel self-growing solution layer.

[0045] Firstly, the hydrogel self-growth monomer is dissolved in ultrapure water to obtain a uniform and transparent hydrogel self-growth monomer solution.

[0046] In this embodiment, ultrapure water is used as a solvent to ensure the purity of the solution and avoid interference of impurities on the self-growth process. By dissolving the hydrogel self-growth monomer, it is evenly distributed in the solution, providing good conditions for subsequent reaction with carbon nanotube powder. By fully dissolving the hydrogel self-growth monomer in ultrapure water, a stable, uniform, and transparent hydrogel self-growth monomer solution can be obtained.

[0047] Then, the carbon nanotube powder is added into the hydrogel self-growth monomer solution to obtain a mixed solution of the carbon nanotube powder and the hydrogel self-growth monomer solution.

[0048] In this embodiment, carbon nanotubes are added as free radical initiators to the hydrogel self-growing monomer solution to form a mixed solution. Carbon nanotube powder has a unique structure and properties and can initiate the self-growth reaction of the monomer. Alternatively, the carbon nanotube powder can be evenly dispersed in the solution by stirring or other mixing methods to form a mixed solution.

[0049] Finally, the mixed solution is subjected to a static stratification treatment to form a stable macroscopic interface between the carbon nanotube powder and the hydrogel self-growing monomer solution, so as to generate a free radical initiator layer and a hydrogel self-growing solution layer.

[0050] By standing still, the carbon nanotube powder settles under the action of gravity and forms a stable macroscopic interface with the hydrogel self-growth monomer solution. This macroscopic interface is an important part of the self-growth process. The clear distinction between the initiator layer and the self-growth solution layer is conducive to the self-growth reaction. A stable macroscopic interface can ensure the controllability and repeatability of the self-growth process.

[0051] In an optional embodiment, the mixed solution can be subjected to a static stratification treatment based on a preset treatment time. In this embodiment, the treatment time refers to the length of time required for the mixed solution to be subjected to a static stratification treatment. An appropriate treatment time can ensure that the carbon nanotube powder is fully settled to the bottom of the container and forms a stable macroscopic interface with the hydrogel self-growing monomer solution.

[0052] Optionally, the treatment time can be 6 hours to 24 hours. In practical applications, within the above treatment time range, the carbon nanotube powder can gradually settle under the action of gravity, and the molecules in the solution also have enough time to adjust and arrange, thereby forming a stable layered structure. If the treatment time is too short, the carbon nanotube powder may not be fully settled, resulting in an unstable macroscopic interface; if the treatment time is too long, it will reduce production efficiency and increase production costs.

[0053] In addition, the mixed solution can also be subjected to a static stratification treatment at a suitable treatment temperature. In this embodiment, the treatment temperature refers to the ambient temperature when the mixed solution is subjected to a static stratification treatment. Temperature has an important influence on the physical properties and chemical reaction rate of the solution.

[0054] Optionally, the treatment temperature may be 25° C. In practical applications, at this temperature, the molecular movement speed of the solution is moderate, which is beneficial to the sedimentation of the carbon nanotube powder and does not adversely affect the stability of the hydrogel self-growing monomer.

[0055] Further optionally, the time of the static stratification treatment can be appropriately adjusted according to the characteristics of different types of carbon nanotubes or hydrogel monomers. For example, for certain specific high molecular weight monomers, a longer static time (e.g., 36 hours) may be required to ensure sufficient stratification effect. Similarly, in some cases, the temperature can also be adjusted according to specific implementation needs to improve the efficiency of the static stratification treatment. For example, the treatment can be carried out at a lower temperature (e.g., 15°C) to slow down the reaction rate and facilitate the observation of the stratification process, or at a higher temperature (e.g., 30°C) to accelerate the stratification to shorten the treatment time.

[0056] In an optional embodiment, the hydrogel self-growth monomer solution is a vinyl monomer aqueous solution, and the mass fraction of the vinyl monomer in the vinyl monomer aqueous solution is 17 wt. %~42 wt. %. In practical applications, within the above mass fraction range, the concentration of vinyl monomer is moderate, which can ensure that sufficient monomers participate in the polymerization reaction to form a hydrogel with certain strength and performance, and will not inhibit self-growth due to excessive monomer concentration, affecting the reaction and the performance of the hydrogel.

[0057] In this embodiment, the vinyl monomer refers to a compound having a vinyl structure, which can form a polymer network through polymerization reaction. Specifically, the vinyl monomer can be one of acrylamide, acrylic acid, methacrylamide, N-isopropylacrylamide, N-phenylacrylamide, N-tert-butylacrylamide or diacetoneacrylamide.

[0058] The above-mentioned various vinyl monomers provide a variety of options for preparing hydrogels. Different vinyl monomers have different chemical structures and performance characteristics, and suitable monomers can be selected according to actual application requirements.

[0059] Among them, acrylamide is a commonly used vinyl monomer with good water solubility and polymerization properties, and can form hydrogels with high strength and water absorption. Acrylic acid has strong acidity and can be copolymerized with other monomers to form hydrogels with special properties. Monomers such as methacrylamide, N-isopropylacrylamide, N-phenylacrylamide, N-tert-butylacrylamide and diacetone acrylamide also have different properties, such as hydrophilicity, hydrophobicity, temperature sensitivity, etc. The properties of the hydrogel can be regulated by selecting different monomers.

[0060] In an optional embodiment, the hydrogel self-growth monomer solution is an aqueous solution of acrylate monomers, and the mass fraction of acrylate monomers in the aqueous solution of acrylate monomers is 15 wt. %~30 wt. %. Similarly, within the above mass fraction range, the concentration of the acrylate monomer is moderate, which can ensure that sufficient monomers participate in the polymerization reaction to form a hydrogel with certain strength and performance, and will not inhibit the self-growth reaction due to excessive monomer concentration, thereby affecting the reaction and the performance of the hydrogel.

[0061] In this embodiment, the acrylate monomer may be one of 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate or polyethylene glycol monomaleate.

[0062] Among them, 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate has good biocompatibility and reactivity, and can participate in the self-growth process of hydrogel to form a hydrogel with specific properties. For example, it can undergo cross-linking reactions with other monomers or additives to improve the mechanical properties and stability of the hydrogel. Polyethylene glycol monomaleate is biodegradable and biocompatible, and is suitable for applications in the biomedical field. It can be degraded by enzymes or other substances in the body under certain conditions, reducing the long-term effects on the body. At the same time, its hydrophilicity can improve the water absorption and biocompatibility of the hydrogel.

[0063] In an optional embodiment, the carbon nanotube powder can be a single-walled carbon nanotube or a multi-walled carbon nanotube, and the mass fraction of the carbon nanotube powder in the mixed solution is 0.05 wt. %~0.50 wt. %.

[0064] In this embodiment, powdered carbon nanotubes can be better dispersed and settled in the mixed solution to form a stable initiator layer. Among them, single-walled carbon nanotubes have a higher specific surface area and conductivity, and can show higher efficiency in the process of initiating hydrogel self-growth; multi-walled carbon nanotubes have better mechanical strength and stability, and can have a positive effect on the mechanical properties of hydrogel. The above two types of carbon nanotubes can be selected according to different application requirements.

[0065] In addition, the mass fraction range of the carbon nanotube powder can ensure the effectiveness of the initiator while avoiding aggregation caused by excessively high concentrations or adverse effects on the hydrogel. The appropriate concentration can ensure that the carbon nanotubes effectively participate in the reaction during the self-growth process, thereby improving the performance of the hydrogel.

[0066] In order to further illustrate the method for preparing a self-growing hydrogel using carbon nanotubes as an initiator provided by an embodiment of the present invention in detail, the method for preparing a self-growing hydrogel using carbon nanotubes as an initiator provided by an embodiment of the present invention is further illustrated in combination with multiple embodiments below.

[0067] Embodiment 1:

[0068] In this embodiment, the experiment was carried out in a transparent glass bottle with a cover and a diameter of 20 mm and a height of 50 mm. 2-Hydroxyethyl methacrylate was used as the hydrogel self-growth monomer with a mass fraction of 26. wt. %; single-walled carbon nanotubes as free radical initiators, with a mass fraction of 0.12 wt. %. The specific implementation scheme is as follows:

[0069] Step 1, add 2.12g of 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate monomer to 5.88g of ultrapure water, stir magnetically for 20min until completely dissolved, and obtain a mass fraction of 26 wt. % aqueous solution of 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate.

[0070] Step 2: Add 0.01 g of single-walled carbon nanotube powder to the above-mentioned 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate aqueous solution, and let it stand at room temperature of 25° C. for 24 hours until the single-walled carbon nanotube powder settles to the bottom of the container and forms a stable macroscopic interface with the 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate aqueous solution to obtain a mixed reaction system.

[0071] Step 3, subjecting the mixed reaction system in the above step to a self-growth experiment of poly (2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) hydrogel at a constant temperature of 65°C, with a constant temperature incubator providing a constant temperature environment, and recording the entire self-growth process with a camera.

[0072] The schematic diagram of different stages of the self-growth process of the poly (2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) hydrogel provided in the embodiment of the present invention is as follows: Figure 3 Based on Figure 3 The experimental results shown show the self-growth process of the hydrogel at different time points (from 0 hours to 110 hours).

[0073] Embodiment 2:

[0074] In this embodiment, the experiment was carried out in a transparent glass bottle with a cover and a diameter of 20 mm and a height of 50 mm. Acrylamide was used as the hydrogel self-growth monomer with a mass fraction of 29. wt. %; single-walled carbon nanotubes as free radical initiators, with a mass fraction of 0.20 wt. %. The specific implementation scheme is as follows:

[0075] Step 1: Add 1.43 g of acrylamide monomer to 3.57 g of ultrapure water and stir magnetically for 20 min until completely dissolved to obtain a mass fraction of 29. wt. % acrylamide aqueous solution;

[0076] Step 2: Add 0.01 g of single-walled carbon nanotube powder to the acrylamide aqueous solution, and let stand at room temperature of 25° C. for 24 hours until the single-walled carbon nanotube powder settles to the bottom of the container and forms a stable macroscopic interface with the acrylamide aqueous solution to obtain a mixed reaction system.

[0077] Step 3, subjecting the mixed reaction system to a self-growth experiment of polyacrylamide hydrogel at a constant temperature of 65° C., a constant temperature incubator provides a constant temperature environment, and a camera is used to record the entire self-growth process.

[0078] The schematic diagram of different stages of the self-growth process of the polyacrylamide hydrogel provided in the embodiment of the present invention is as follows: Figure 4 Based on Figure 4 The experimental results shown show the self-growth process of the hydrogel at different time points (from 0 hours to 188 hours).

[0079] The above examples are only preferred embodiments of the present invention. Of course, those skilled in the art may make changes and modifications to the present invention. If these modifications and variations fall within the scope of the claims of the present invention and their equivalents, they should be considered to be within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0080] It should be noted that the term "including" and its variations used in the embodiments of the present invention are open inclusions, that is, "including but not limited to". The term "based on" means "based at least in part on". The term "one embodiment" means "at least one embodiment"; the term "another embodiment" means "at least one other embodiment"; the term "some embodiments" means "at least some embodiments". The modifications of "one" and "multiple" mentioned in the embodiments of the present invention are illustrative rather than restrictive. Those skilled in the art should understand that unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, it should be understood as "one or more".

[0081] The user information (including but not limited to user device information, user personal information, etc.) and data (including but not limited to data used for analysis, stored data, displayed data, etc.) involved in the embodiments of the present invention are all information and data authorized by the user or fully authorized by all parties, and the collection, use and processing of relevant data must comply with the relevant laws, regulations and standards of relevant countries and regions, and provide corresponding operation entrances for users to choose to authorize or refuse.

[0082] The various steps described in the method implementation methods provided in the embodiments of the present invention may be performed in different orders and / or in parallel. In addition, the method implementation methods may include additional steps and / or omit the steps shown. The scope of protection of the present invention is not limited in this respect.

[0083] The term "embodiment" in this specification refers to specific features, structures or characteristics described in conjunction with the embodiment that can be included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. The appearance of this phrase in various places in the specification does not necessarily mean the same embodiment, nor does it mean that it is mutually exclusive with other embodiments and is independent or optional. The various embodiments in this specification are described in a related manner, and the same or similar parts between the various embodiments refer to each other. In particular, for the device, equipment, and system embodiments, since they are basically similar to the method embodiments, the description is relatively simple, and the relevant parts refer to the partial description of the method embodiment.

[0084] The above-mentioned embodiments only express several implementation methods of the present invention, and the description thereof is relatively specific and detailed, but it cannot be understood as limiting the scope of patent protection. It should be pointed out that, for a person of ordinary skill in the art, several variations and improvements can be made without departing from the concept of the present invention, and these all belong to the scope of protection of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present invention shall be subject to the attached claims.

Claims

1. A method for preparing a self-growing hydrogel using carbon nanotubes as an initiator, characterized in that: include: Constructing a mixed reaction system for hydrogel self-growth, the mixed reaction system comprising a free radical initiator layer and a hydrogel self-growth solution layer arranged in sequence from bottom to top, the free radical initiator layer comprising carbon nanotube powder, the hydrogel self-growth solution layer comprising a hydrogel self-growth monomer, and the hydrogel self-growth monomer being a vinyl monomer or an acrylate monomer; Cultivating the mixed reaction system under a constant temperature condition, so that the hydrogel self-growing monomer forms a hydrogel by self-growth under the action of the carbon nanotube powder; The mixed reaction system for constructing the hydrogel self-growth comprises: Dissolving the hydrogel self-growth monomer in ultrapure water to obtain a uniform and transparent hydrogel self-growth monomer solution; Adding the carbon nanotube powder into the hydrogel self-growing monomer solution to obtain a mixed solution of the carbon nanotube powder and the hydrogel self-growing monomer solution; The mixed solution is subjected to a static stratification treatment to form a stable macroscopic interface between the carbon nanotube powder and the hydrogel self-growing monomer solution, so as to generate the free radical initiator layer and the hydrogel self-growing solution layer; Wherein, the hydrogel self-growth monomer solution is a vinyl monomer aqueous solution, and the mass fraction of the vinyl monomer in the vinyl monomer aqueous solution is 17wt.% to 42wt.%; The hydrogel self-growth monomer solution is an aqueous solution of acrylate monomers, and the mass fraction of the acrylate monomers in the aqueous solution of acrylate monomers is 15wt.% to 30wt.%; The mass fraction of the carbon nanotube powder in the mixed solution is 0.05 wt.% to 0.50 wt.%.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that The step of subjecting the mixed solution to a static stratification treatment comprises: The mixed solution is subjected to a static stratification treatment for a treatment time of 6 to 24 hours at a treatment temperature of 25°C.

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that The vinyl monomer is one of acrylamide, acrylic acid, methacrylamide, N-isopropylacrylamide, N-phenylacrylamide, N-tert-butylacrylamide or diacetoneacrylamide.

4. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that The acrylic acid ester monomer is one of 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate or polyethylene glycol monomaleate.

5. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that The carbon nanotube powder is one of single-walled carbon nanotubes and multi-walled carbon nanotubes.

6. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that The constant temperature condition is a constant temperature environment with a temperature range of 45°C to 70°C.

7. A hydrogel, wherein the hydrogel is prepared according to the method for preparing a self-growing hydrogel using carbon nanotubes as an initiator according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

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