In this study, we overviewed the magnetic aerogel for the first time in terms of their major types and important applications, and have paved the way for the further research on this futuristic advanced material.

The current study reports the synthesis of graphite-based poly(acrylonitrile-co-acrylic acid) composite (GPC) sheets via sol-gel/casting method. The effect of different amounts of graphite (0.25 to 40 wt%) on various characteristics of the prepared GPC was studied through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), and differential thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA/DTG). The XRD and FTIR analyses confirmed the existence of characteristic peaks of graphite while SEM micrographs showed its uniform distribution in polymer matrix. TGA curves revealed enhancement of thermal stability of GPC with increasing graphite content. The swelling ratio and water holding capacity analyses revealed a reduced hydrophilic behavior of GPC with increasing graphite content. The fabricated GPC demonstrated impressive antimicrobial properties against Escherichia coli. The structural, physico-chemical, thermal, and biological features of as-prepared GPC show their potential biomedical applications.

: Polyethylene glycols (PEG) are water-soluble nonionic polymeric molecules. PEG and PEG-based materials are used for various important applications such as solvents, adhesives, adsorbents, drug delivery agents, tissue engineering scaffolds, etc. The coating of nanoparticles with PEG forms core-shell nanoparticles. The PEG-based core-shell nanoparticles are synthesized for the development of high-quality drug delivery systems. In the present review, we first explained the basics and various applications of PEGs and PEG-based composites materials and then concentrated on the PEG-based core-shell nanoparticles for biomedical applications specifically their use in drug delivery.

The outcome of the present review confirms that the magnetic core-shell nanocomposites provide a cost effective and efficient way for the removal of various toxic substances including dyes, heavy metals, toxic organic chemicals, pesticides and some biological contaminants from water sources.