Formation of Helical Alginate Microfibers Using Different G/M Ratios of Sodium Alginate Based on Microfluidics

In this study, a coaxial microfluidic device was made to continuously and controllably fabricate helical hydrogel microfibers with flexible shape by simply adjusting the flowrates. Various experimental conditions that can influence the diameter (d), pitch (p) and amplitude (A) of these formed coiled fibers were discussed. For the first time, the effects of G/M ratio of the alginates on the microfiber coiling phenomenon were examined. Additionally, magnetically responsive helical fibers were synthesized, and it is envisioned that hydrogel helical structure microfibers are highly versatile in different area, such as micro sensors, soft actuators and medical applications.

Source: Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical - October 14, 2019 Category: Chemistry Source Type: research