A review on polymer nanocomposite hydrogel preparation, characterization, and applications

Abstract

Nanocomposite hydrogels, made by incorporating nanoparticles into a hydrogel matrix, have been developed to fulfill the need for materials with enhanced and predictable mechanical properties and functionality. This review breaks down the process of preparing and characterizing nanocomposite hydrogels and looks at the various applications they can be used for. Through careful selection of the nanoparticle and hydrogel types, as well as the preparation method, the degree of crosslinking and the strength of the intermolecular interactions between the nanoparticles and the hydrogel matrix can be controlled. Once the nanomaterial is prepared, the morphology, gel content, thermal stability, and mechanical properties are investigated. By varying the concentrations of nanoparticles within the hydrogel matrix, nanocomposite hydrogels with optimal functionality and mechanical properties are produced. The optimized nanomaterial can then be used for its intended application(s); here the focus is on applications in the biomedical and dye adsorption fields. With further research, it is predicted that nanocomposite hydrogels will fulfill their potential to be used in practical, everyday applications.

3D Printing of pH Indicator Auxetic Hydrogel Skin Wound Dressing

“…The effect of the concentration of cross-linkers, monomers, and photoinitiators on the mechanical properties of hydrogels has been thoroughly discussed in the literature [ 32 , 33 , 34 , 35 , 36 , 37 , 38 , 39 ]. It has been established that a higher proportion of the cross-linker relative to the functional monomer can increase the strength and hardness of the polymer [ 40 ] while reducing its swelling ratio.…”

Fluorescent Nanocomposite Hydrogels Based on Conjugated Polymer Nanoparticles as Platforms for Alkaline Phosphatase Detection

“…Hydrogel properties can be easily modulated and/or improved. This is the case of nanocomposite hydrogels (NCHs), which are manufactured by incorporating nanomaterials inside polymeric materials, such as nanoparticles of silica, gold or silver, carbon nanotubes, graphene, magnetic nanoparticles or quantum dots [ 4 , 5 ]. This innovative strategy results in a synergistic effect that improves the properties of both components and generates multifunctional hydrogels with varied characteristics, such as greater elasticity and resistance (compared to traditionally manufactured hydrogels), higher electrical and thermal conductivity, magnetic properties, color change or luminescence [ 6 , 7 ].…”