A mechano-diffusion characterization platform for probing strain-programmable nanoparticle diffusion in hydrogels

Nanoparticle diffusion is a fundamental process that ubiquitously exists in life science and engineering technology. Recent studies demonstrate the potential of harnessing mechanical deformation to program nanoparticle diffusion in hydrogels, offering an expanded spectrum of nanoparticle diffusivities with precise and on-demand control. Here, we develop a mechano-diffusion characterization platform (MDCP) that integrates a mechanical system to apply controlled tension and torsion loads to deformable mediums, and an imaging system to capture spatiotemporal diffusion profiles of nanoparticles. Employing the MDCP, we study the impact of mechanical deformation on nanoparticle diffusion in hydrogels subjected to controlled stress states and loading rates.