Self-Driven Rapid Gelation Technologies for Hydrogels: Synthesis Strategies, Mechanisms, and Applications.

Rapid gelation hydrogels have garnered significant attention due to their simple synthesis, high efficiency, low cost, and environmental sustainability, which enable to meet critical demands for scalability and green chemistry for unlocking opportunities across diverse application fields. This review synthesizes current advancements in the mechanisms driving rapid gelation, encompassing self-assembly processes, MXene-triggered gelation, redox-driven reactions, coordination chemistry, Schiff base reactions, and other innovative strategies. The discussion extends to their far-reaching applications, from advanced therapeutic platforms and high-performance energy devices to precision sensors and adaptive soft actuators. By critically evaluating recent progress and addressing existing challenges, this review not only deepens the understanding of rapid gelation mechanisms, but also provides scientific insights and practical guidance to foster interdisciplinary integration and drive material innovation in green synthesis technologies.