Carbon Based Polymeric Nanocomposite Hydrogel Bioink: A Review

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Materials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Hydrogels are versatile polymeric networks with high water content.
• Traditional hydrogels often lack the mechanical strength and functionality for advanced biomedical applications.
• Integrating nanoparticles into hydrogels offers a route to enhanced material properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the development and applications of carbon-based polymeric nanocomposite hydrogels (NCHs).
• To investigate the impact of various carbon nanoparticles on hydrogel properties and performance.
• To highlight the potential of NCHs in drug delivery, tissue engineering, and wound healing.

Main Methods:

• Incorporation of carbon nanoparticles (graphene, CNTs, CDs, AC) into polymeric hydrogel matrices.
• Characterization of enhanced mechanical strength, electrical conductivity, and bioactivity.
• Evaluation of NCHs in specific biomedical applications like drug delivery, 3D bioprinting, and wound healing.

Main Results:

• Graphene and CNTs significantly improve mechanical and electrical properties, enabling advanced tissue scaffolding and bioinks.
• Carbon dots (CDs) provide fluorescence for theranostic applications, combining imaging and therapy.
• Activated charcoal (AC) enhances biocompatibility and antibacterial properties for wound healing and electroactive scaffolds.

Conclusions:

• Carbon-based NCHs offer superior properties compared to conventional hydrogels.
• These nanocomposites are highly effective for diverse biomedical applications, including drug delivery, tissue engineering, and wound healing.
• Further research is needed to overcome challenges in optimization, biocompatibility, dispersion, and scalability for clinical translation.