Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kaiqi Fan, a distinguished researcher at Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, China, specializes in polymers, supramolecular chemistry, co-crystalline gels, and hydrogels. He has led multiple provincial-level science and technology projects, secured several invention patents, and published impactful papers in leading journals such as Chemical Engineering Journal and Journal of Colloid and Interface Science. His pioneering work on asymmetric-adhesion Janus hydrogels has advanced medical interface technologies, enabling improved continuous ultrasound Doppler monitoring. Dr. Fan’s research integrates innovation, material design, and practical applications, significantly contributing to the development of advanced functional materials with biomedical and industrial relevance.

Author Profile

Scopus

Education

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kaiqi Fan’s academic journey began with a strong foundation in chemistry and materials science, where his early education nurtured a passion for understanding molecular interactions and functional materials. His curiosity for polymers and supramolecular assemblies developed during his higher education years, leading him to focus on designing advanced materials with tailored properties. Driven by a desire to merge fundamental chemistry with practical applications, Dr. Fan excelled in both theoretical understanding and laboratory experimentation. This early dedication provided the groundwork for his later breakthroughs in hydrogels, ionic elastomers, and co-crystalline gels, ensuring that his career would be deeply rooted in innovation and scientific rigor.

Experience

Currently serving as an Associate Professor at Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Dr. Fan plays a vital role in advancing polymer science research while mentoring the next generation of scientists. He has successfully led multiple provincial-level science and technology projects in Henan Province, each addressing real-world challenges through advanced material design. His expertise extends beyond academia into collaborative research with industrial partners, translating laboratory findings into practical solutions. Moreover, Dr. Fan has contributed significantly to scientific literature, with publications in prestigious journals such as Chemical Engineering Journal and Journal of Colloid and Interface Science. His academic and professional roles are characterized by a balance of teaching excellence, research leadership, and cross-disciplinary collaboration.

Research Focus

Dr. Fan’s research centers on polymers, supramolecular chemistry, and the design of functional gels with unique mechanical and interfacial properties. Among his most notable contributions is the development of chitosan-integrated asymmetric-adhesion Janus hydrogels via solid–gel interfacial engineering. This innovation addresses the challenge of programmable adhesion asymmetry by introducing a mold-directed solid–gel interface strategy, achieving an 18-fold difference in adhesion strength between the two sides of the hydrogel. The resulting materials not only exhibit exceptional acoustic impedance properties comparable to commercial ultrasound gels but also demonstrate dual-functionality—secure attachment for medical probes and a sliding interface for dynamic tissue interaction. His broader research portfolio includes eutectogel adhesives, self-healing conductive gels, underwater-sensing gels, and low-temperature-resistant hydrogel electrolytes, all contributing to advancements in biomedical devices, sensing technologies, and energy storage systems.

Award and Recognition

Dr. Fan’s pioneering work has been recognized through multiple avenues. He has secured several invention patents, demonstrating his capacity for translating scientific concepts into practical and commercially viable innovations. His research articles have been featured in high-impact journals indexed in SCI and Scopus, earning citations from scholars worldwide. By leading competitive provincial research grants, he has established himself as a trusted innovator in China’s scientific community. These accolades not only highlight his academic excellence but also validate the societal relevance of his research in areas such as medical diagnostics, wearable technology, and sustainable material design.

Impact and Influence

The influence of Dr. Fan’s research extends far beyond the laboratory. His innovations in hydrogel technology have the potential to transform biomedical imaging and monitoring, particularly in continuous ultrasound Doppler measurements, where his designs enhance signal quality and patient comfort. By advancing materials that combine stretchability, self-healing properties, and environmental resilience, his work supports the development of wearable electronics and energy devices that can withstand harsh operating conditions. His contributions are also shaping the next generation of researchers through mentorship, workshops, and collaborative projects, fostering a culture of creativity and scientific curiosity.

Publications