Hydrogels: From Design to Applications in Forensic Investigations

Abstract

The concept of green hydrogels in forensics is a budding area where it encompasses the concept of sustainable investigation. Motivated by the need to prepare for the next generation advanced materials for implementing proactive forensic science strategy. The work conception, already successful in a few fields, aimed at implementing the sophisticated criminal's way of thinking, predicting their next move so that the crime‐fighting authorities can be one step ahead of them and take precautionary actions. The existing problems of current society need to be solved by deliberate efforts of researchers and forensic experts, as we can formulate strategy of design, production, and characterization of innovative polymeric materials for on spot detection of traces. Various innovative materials have been explored with the help of green chemistry. Fingerprinted products that are unique in their compilation are made in forensics by utilizing the concept of green chemistry. The creation of nontoxic hydrogels by utilizing green polymers that are biodegradable, biocompatible, and bio renewable is one such field that helps in forensic applications. The distinctive properties of hydrogels make them suitable for various forensic investigations. In this review article, we have focused on the unique sparked properties of these smart gels and opened a gateway in solving various unsolved mysteries.