Sustainable Biomass Lignin-Based Hydrogels: A Review on Properties, Formulation, and Biomedical Applications

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Lignocellulosic biomass is a recalcitrant material, but lignin biopolymer extraction is advancing.
• Lignin possesses valuable properties like biocompatibility, biodegradability, and antioxidant/antimicrobial activities.
• Lignin valorization into hydrogels is a growing area for value-added products.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive review of lignin-based hydrogels.
• To focus on the preparation, properties, and biomedical applications of these hydrogels.
• To explore their potential in wound healing, drug delivery, and 3D bioprinting.

Main Methods:

• Review of various synthesis methods for lignin-based hydrogels.
• Analysis of lignin's functional groups (hydroxyl, carboxyl, sulfonic) in hydrogel formation.
• Examination of crosslinking mechanisms, including hydrogen and ionic bonding.

Main Results:

• Lignin-based hydrogels demonstrate significant potential in diverse biomedical fields.
• Copolymerization with other polymers expands the application scope of lignin hydrogels.
• Specific examples include lignin-chitosan-poly(vinyl alcohol) hydrogels.

Conclusions:

• Lignin-based hydrogels are versatile materials for advanced biomedical applications.
• Their unique properties support their use in wound healing, drug delivery, and 3D bioprinting.
• Future research trends and potential advancements in the field are discussed.