LAUSR

The polyionic nature of gelatin (G), derived from partial hydrolysis of collagen, is utilized to prepare ionogels (IGs) in conjunction with aqueous mixtures of a polar ionic liquid (IL), 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium ethylsulfate, [C2mim][C2OSO3]. The highly polar nature of IL–H2O mixture (50/50 v/v %) supported the high solubility of G, where the IGs are prepared by dissolving equal amount of G to IL–H2O mixture (50/50 v/v %) in a stepwise manner at 45 °C while stirring. The combination of IGs with Ag2O nanoparticles (NPs) prepared in situ, via photoreduction of AgNO3 led to induction of antimicrobial activity in IGs, while enhancing the mechanical properties. The prepared IGs show fast self-healing (<1 min) and multiadhesive nature along with reversible stretching efficiency and high conductivity. The conductivity (2 mS cm–1) of prepared IG is highest among all biopolymer-based IGs reported, until date. The multiadhesive and highly conducting nature, transparency, inherent shape-memory effect, and mechani...