Fundamental of hydrogels and nanocomposite hydrogels: synthesis, physiochemical characterization, and biomedical applications

In recent years, hydrogel and nanocomposite hydrogels have been considered highly promising and deliverable materials for the upcoming advanced biomedical applications. Hydrogel and its nanocomposite forms are highly considered for the major wound-healing applications as dressing materials. These fabricated materials provide a rich oxygen supply and a moist environment to the wounds surrounding for excellent healing. These materials are an excellent platform for the delivery of numerous therapeutic drug molecules, antimicrobials, and growth factors that support the efficient and overall healing of the wound. Hydrogel materials are excellent in biocompatibility with mammalian cells and are not limited to self-healing and are highly flexible for various biomedical applications. These hydrogels and nanocomposite forms also act as smart wound dressing material with excellent antifouling properties, which significantly reduces the microbial contaminations as well. Herein, this chapter discusses the relevant synthesis, bio-physiochemical properties, and respective biomedical-related applications of these hydrogel and nanocomposite hydrogel materials.