@article{Yang2026, 
author = {Song Yang and Chenxi Qin and Zhencai Xing and Ming Zhang and Yanfei Ma and Feng Zhou and Weimin Liu},
title = {Super-lubricating hydrogel enabled by microgel rolling and gradient porous structures},
year = {2026},
journal = {Nano Research},
volume = {19},
number = {10},
pages = {94908384},
keywords = {gradient hydrogel, micron particles, high-load bearing, low friction},
url = {https://www.sciopen.com/article/10.26599/NR.2026.94908384},
doi = {10.26599/NR.2026.94908384},
abstract = {Hydrogels, with their tissue-like properties, biocompatibility, and soft properties, are potential biomimetic cartilage replacement materials. However, the conflict between their surface lubricity and load-bearing properties significantly limits their application. Here, we developed a structure-based hydrogel with super-lubricity and high load-bearing properties. Through ultraviolet (UV)-controlled dissociation, a gradient hydrogel surface was constructed. This structure effectively dissipates normal contact stress while maintaining a high surface hydration level, enhancing load-bearing capacity. Furthermore, micron-sized spherical gel particles were prepared using an emulsion method and incorporated into the highly hydrated polymer network, further enhancing the load-bearing capacity of the porous hydrogel and significantly reducing the coefficient of friction (COF) by converting sliding friction into rolling friction. Ultimately, through multiple synergistic effects, we achieved ultra-low friction performance, with a COF of approximately 0.0064 after 20,000 cycles under a 5 N load. This innovation provides an alternative solution for future biomimetic articular cartilage.}
}