Researchers at Stanford University have developed a Jell-O-like
conducting hydrogel that they claim feels and behaves similar to
biological tissues but demonstrates the superior electrical
conductivity of a metal or semiconductor. Quick and easy to
fabricate, the material has demonstrated 'unprecedented
electrical performance,' according to the researchers, and shows
promise for use in future medical sensors. To create the
conductive gel, the researchers bound together long chains of
the compound analine with a substance found naturally in plant
tissues called phytic acid. And whereas current conductive
polymers form a uniform film without the use of nanostructures,
the cross-linked network resulting from the polymer chain
binding yields a complex, sponge-like structure. It is this
unique porous structure, the researchers note, that give the
hydrogel its distinct electronic properties. By expanding the
gel's surface area, the pores increase the amount of charge that
the material is capable of holding, the abi