Hydrogels constructed by multicomponent reactions

Abstract

Hydrogels have been widely used in many fields. To meet the application requirements of different fields, hydrogels with different functions have been developed through efficient organic reactions. Multicomponent reactions (MCRs) have been used as distinct tools in hydrogel preparation, owing to their high efficiency, mild reaction conditions and tolerance for various functional groups. In this mini-review, we present a comprehensive overview of the roles of MCRs as crosslinking reactions and as functional group introducers in hydrogel construction. Finally, we will discuss the future perspectives of MCRs in exploring (multi)functional hydrogels.