Fig. 3: Mechanical properties of the S-PAZr hydrogel fiber.

Effect of (a, b) Zr4+ and (c, d) Na2SO4 concentration on the mechanical properties of S-PAZr hydrogel fibers. Data were presented as mean ± SD (n = 3 independent samples). e Modulus ranges of gels, rubbers, plastics, and S-PAZr hydrogel fibers. Ashby plots of (f) toughness versus elastic modulus, (g) toughness versus tensile strain of S-PAZr hydrogel fibers, and other reported hydrogel fibers. h Mechanical performance comparison of S-PAZr hydrogel fibers and other high-toughness materials. The blue shaded area showed the range of toughness and strain that could be adjusted by the BSE strategy.