Bipolar electrochemistry enables the wireless modulation of redox states across conductive materials, offering new possibilities for localized electrochemical transformations without the need for direct electrical connections. By leveraging this principle, we developed a system where redox gradients can be precisely controlled, opening pathways for novel applications in bioelectronics and materials science. Our study demonstrates how BE can be harnessed to manipulate the chemical and physical properties of conductive polymer-hydrogel hybrids, paving the way for innovative functional materials with tunable characteristics.
We are excited to share our latest publication exploring bipolar electrochemistry (BE) as a wireless strategy to spatially control redox gradients in conductive polymer-hydrogel hybrids (Figure 1)!
By integrating poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) with alginate hydrogels, we developed flexible bipolar electrodes (BPEs) capable of wireless and reversible redox tuning (Figure 2). This unique combination of a conductive polymer and biocompatible hydrogel matrix provides a mechanically adaptable platform for dynamic redox control. (10.20517/ss.2022.25; 10.1002/mame.202300263) The wireless nature of the system allows for seamless integration into biomedical and electronic devices, facilitating localized electrochemical processes in a completely untethered manner. This approach holds great promise for applications requiring spatially controlled chemical reactions, from responsive biointerfaces to advanced energy storage solutions.
🔹 Targeted drug loading – Fluorescein molecules were selectively loaded into specific regions of the hydrogel, demonstrating an alternative to conventional uniform doping techniques (Figure 3). This technique enables spatial control over the incorporation of bioactive molecules, allowing for the development of next-generation drug delivery systems. By leveraging BE, we demonstrate how wireless modulation can be used to create patterned drug reservoirs, which can be released in a controlled manner. This advancement is particularly relevant for precision medicine, where localized and programmable drug release is critical for improving therapeutic outcomes.
🔹 Energy harvesting – By cutting gradient-encoded BPEs and closing an external circuit, we recovered stored electrochemical energy using a concentration cell mechanism (Figure 4). This innovative approach transforms our conductive hydrogel system into a wireless energy storage platform, capable of harnessing and releasing stored charge based on redox potential differences. The ability to wirelessly charge and discharge these materials suggests potential applications in self-powered biosensors, flexible electronics, and even implantable medical devices requiring localized power sources.
Using cyclic voltammetry, impedance spectroscopy, Raman microscopy, and XPS, we mapped distinct redox regions within the BPEs, providing insights into wireless bioelectronics applications. (10.1038/s41467-022-29037-6)
This work highlights the untapped potential of BE in biomedical and energy fields, bridging materials science, electrochemistry, and bioengineering for next-generation drug delivery and energy storage systems.
Looking forward to discussions with fellow researchers on how BE can revolutionize wireless chemical control in functional materials!
Read more: https://www.nature.com/articles/s43246-025-00750-1 / Bipolar electrochemistry-driven wireless drug loading and energy harvesting in conductive hybrid hydrogels | Communications Materials
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