Tough, sticky and remoldable hydrophobic association hydrogel regulated by polysaccharide and sodium dodecyl sulfate as emulsifiers.

•Combined surfactants consisting of polysaccharide (gum arabic) and sodium dodecyl sulfate were utilized to prepare hydrophobic association hydrogels.•The hydrogels exhibited tough, sticky, self-healing and remoldable properties.•The hydrogel would be expected to be applied in wound dressing, medical electrodes, tissue adhesives and portable equipment.