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Calderón Moreno JM, Chelu M, Popa M. Eco-Friendly Conductive Hydrogels: Towards Green Wearable Electronics. Gels 2025; 11:220. [PMID: 40277656 PMCID: PMC12026593 DOI: 10.3390/gels11040220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2025] [Revised: 03/13/2025] [Accepted: 03/19/2025] [Indexed: 04/26/2025] Open
Abstract
The rapid advancement of wearable electronics has catalyzed the development of flexible, lightweight, and highly conductive materials. Among these, conductive hydrogels have emerged as promising candidates due to their tissue-like properties, which can minimize the mechanical mismatch between flexible devices and biological tissues and excellent electrical conductivity, stretchability and biocompatibility. However, the environmental impact of synthetic components and production processes in conventional conductive hydrogels poses significant challenges to their sustainable application. This review explores recent advances in eco-friendly conductive hydrogels used in healthcare, focusing on their design, fabrication, and applications in green wearable electronics. Emphasis is placed on the use of natural polymers, bio-based crosslinkers, and green synthesis methods to improve sustainability while maintaining high performance. We discuss the incorporation of conductive polymers and carbon-based nanomaterials into environmentally benign matrices. Additionally, the article highlights strategies for improving the biodegradability, recyclability, and energy efficiency of these materials. By addressing current limitations and future opportunities, this review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of environmentally friendly conductive hydrogels as a basis for the next generation of sustainable wearable technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- José María Calderón Moreno
- “Ilie Murgulescu” Institute of Physical Chemistry, 202 Splaiul Independentei, 060021 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Mariana Chelu
- “Ilie Murgulescu” Institute of Physical Chemistry, 202 Splaiul Independentei, 060021 Bucharest, Romania;
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2
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Popoola O, Finny A, Dong I, Andreescu S. Smart and Sustainable 3D-Printed Nanocellulose-Based Sensors for Food Freshness Monitoring. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:60920-60932. [PMID: 39436980 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c10304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2024]
Abstract
Annually, about one-third of the food produced around the world is wasted due to spoilage. Food contamination and spoilage, along with the use and disposal of nondegradable packaging materials, impact human health and have huge economic and sustainability implications. Achieving sustainability within the food system requires innovative solutions to reduce the environmental footprint. Herein, we describe the formulation, scalable manufacturing, and characterization of three-dimensional (3D)-printed sensors prepared from a mixture of edible biopolymer hydrogels, 8% alginate, and 10% gelatin and nanocellulose (CNC) as a reinforcement filler. We demonstrate that incorporating CNC improves the overall mechanical performance of the printed film and enables the stabilization of pH-responsive dyes for monitoring the release of total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB-N), an indicator of food freshness. Mechanical performance enhancement includes increases of 43% in load-depth indentation, 28.2% in hardness, and 17.4% in elastic modulus. This enhancement facilitates its use as a smart label technology, enabling the visual assessment of spoilage when placed inside packaging over a period of 3 days at room temperature. The 3D-printed film exhibits excellent durability, flexibility, shape memory, and robustness, along with pH responsiveness, showing distinctive color changes over the pH range of 2 to 13. These performances are demonstrated in packaged meat and fish, enabling monitoring over several days and illustrating potential as a real-time freshness indicator. The material formulations developed in this work are biodegradable, eco-friendly, and inexpensive, making them suitable candidates for smart and sustainable food packaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oluwatosin Popoola
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Clarkson University, Potsdam, New York 13699, United States
| | - Abraham Finny
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Clarkson University, Potsdam, New York 13699, United States
| | - Ivy Dong
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Clarkson University, Potsdam, New York 13699, United States
| | - Silvana Andreescu
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Clarkson University, Potsdam, New York 13699, United States
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Robert Stempel College of Public Health, Florida International University (FIU), Miami, Florida 33199, United States
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3
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Zimmermann CA, Amouzou KN, Sengupta D, Kumar A, Demarquette NR, Ung B. Novel elastomeric spiropyran-doped poly(dimethylsiloxane) optical waveguide for UV sensing. FRONTIERS OF OPTOELECTRONICS 2024; 17:21. [PMID: 39008156 PMCID: PMC11250767 DOI: 10.1007/s12200-024-00124-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
Novel poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) doped with two different spiropyran derivatives (SP) were investigated as potential candidates for the preparation of elastomeric waveguides with UV-dependent optical properties. First, free-standing films were prepared and evaluated with respect to their photochromic response to UV irradiation. Kinetics, reversibility as well as photofatigue and refractive index of the SP-doped PDMS samples were assessed. Second, SP-doped PDMS waveguides were fabricated and tested as UV sensors by monitoring changes in the transmitted optical power of a visible laser (633 nm). UV sensing was successfully demonstrated by doping PDMS using one spiropyran derivative whose propagation loss was measured as 1.04 dB/cm at 633 nm, and sensitivity estimated at 115% change in transmitted optical power per unit change in UV dose. The decay and recovery time constants were measured at 42 and 107 s, respectively, with an average UV saturation dose of 0.4 J/cm2. The prepared waveguides exhibited a reversible and consistent response even under bending. The sensor parameters can be tailored by varying the waveguide length up to 21 cm, and are affected by white light and temperatures up to 70 ℃. This work is relevant to elastomeric optics, smart optical materials, and polymer optical waveguide sensors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Koffi Novignon Amouzou
- Department of Electrical Engineering, École de Technologie Supérieure, Montreal, QC, H3C 1K3, Canada
| | - Dipankar Sengupta
- Department of Electrical Engineering, École de Technologie Supérieure, Montreal, QC, H3C 1K3, Canada
| | - Aashutosh Kumar
- Department of Electrical Engineering, École de Technologie Supérieure, Montreal, QC, H3C 1K3, Canada
| | | | - Bora Ung
- Department of Electrical Engineering, École de Technologie Supérieure, Montreal, QC, H3C 1K3, Canada.
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4
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Omidian H, Mfoafo K. Three-Dimensional Printing Strategies for Enhanced Hydrogel Applications. Gels 2024; 10:220. [PMID: 38667639 PMCID: PMC11049339 DOI: 10.3390/gels10040220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
This study explores the dynamic field of 3D-printed hydrogels, emphasizing advancements and challenges in customization, fabrication, and functionalization for applications in biomedical engineering, soft robotics, and tissue engineering. It delves into the significance of tailored biomedical scaffolds for tissue regeneration, the enhancement in bioinks for realistic tissue replication, and the development of bioinspired actuators. Additionally, this paper addresses fabrication issues in soft robotics, aiming to mimic biological structures through high-resolution, multimaterial printing. In tissue engineering, it highlights efforts to create environments conducive to cell migration and functional tissue development. This research also extends to drug delivery systems, focusing on controlled release and biocompatibility, and examines the integration of hydrogels with electronic components for bioelectronic applications. The interdisciplinary nature of these efforts highlights a commitment to overcoming material limitations and optimizing fabrication techniques to realize the full potential of 3D-printed hydrogels in improving health and well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hossein Omidian
- Barry and Judy Silverman College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33314, USA;
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5
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Paul AA, Aladese AD, Marks RS. Additive Manufacturing Applications in Biosensors Technologies. BIOSENSORS 2024; 14:60. [PMID: 38391979 PMCID: PMC10887193 DOI: 10.3390/bios14020060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Three-dimensional (3D) printing technology, also known as additive manufacturing (AM), has emerged as an attractive state-of-the-art tool for precisely fabricating functional materials with complex geometries, championing several advancements in tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, and therapeutics. However, this technology has an untapped potential for biotechnological applications, such as sensor and biosensor development. By exploring these avenues, the scope of 3D printing technology can be expanded and pave the way for groundbreaking innovations in the biotechnology field. Indeed, new printing materials and printers would offer new possibilities for seamlessly incorporating biological functionalities within the growing 3D scaffolds. Herein, we review the additive manufacturing applications in biosensor technologies with a particular emphasis on extrusion-based 3D printing modalities. We highlight the application of natural, synthetic, and composite biomaterials as 3D-printed soft hydrogels. Emphasis is placed on the approach by which the sensing molecules are introduced during the fabrication process. Finally, future perspectives are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abraham Abbey Paul
- Avram and Stella Goldstein-Goren Department of Biotechnology Engineering, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Be’er Sheva 84105, Israel;
| | - Adedamola D. Aladese
- Department of Physics and Material Science, University of Memphis, Memphis, TN 38152, USA;
| | - Robert S. Marks
- Avram and Stella Goldstein-Goren Department of Biotechnology Engineering, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Be’er Sheva 84105, Israel;
- Ilse Katz Centre for Nanoscale Science and Technology, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Be’er Sheva 84105, Israel
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6
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Patitucci F, Motta MF, Dattilo M, Malivindi R, Leonetti AE, Pezzi G, Prete S, Mileti O, Gabriele D, Parisi OI, Puoci F. 3D-Printed Alginate/Pectin-Based Patches Loaded with Olive Leaf Extracts for Wound Healing Applications: Development, Characterization and In Vitro Evaluation of Biological Properties. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:99. [PMID: 38258109 PMCID: PMC10819698 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16010099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Traditional wound dressings may lack suitability for diverse wound types and individual patient requirements. In this context, this study aimed to innovate wound care by developing a 3D-printed patch using alginate and pectin and incorporating Olive Leaf Extract (OLE) as an active ingredient. Different polymer-to-plasticizer ratios were systematically examined to formulate a printable ink with optimal viscosity. The resultant film, enriched with OLE, exhibited a substantial polyphenolic content of 13.15 ± 0.41 mg CAE/g, showcasing significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Notably, the film demonstrated potent scavenging abilities against DPPH, ABTS, and NO radicals, with IC50 values of 0.66 ± 0.07, 0.47 ± 0.04, and 2.02 ± 0.14 mg/mL, respectively. In vitro release and diffusion studies were carried out and the release profiles revealed an almost complete release of polyphenols from the patch within 48 h. Additionally, the fabricated film exhibited the capacity to enhance cell motility and accelerate wound healing, evidenced by increased collagen I expression in BJ fibroblast cells. Structural assessments affirmed the ability of the patch to absorb exudates and maintain the optimal moisture balance, while biocompatibility studies underscored its suitability for biomedical applications. These compelling findings endorse the potential application of the developed film in advanced wound care, with the prospect of tailoring patches to individual patient needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Patitucci
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, CS, Italy; (F.P.); (M.F.M.); (M.D.); (R.M.); (A.E.L.); (G.P.); (S.P.); (F.P.)
| | - Marisa Francesca Motta
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, CS, Italy; (F.P.); (M.F.M.); (M.D.); (R.M.); (A.E.L.); (G.P.); (S.P.); (F.P.)
| | - Marco Dattilo
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, CS, Italy; (F.P.); (M.F.M.); (M.D.); (R.M.); (A.E.L.); (G.P.); (S.P.); (F.P.)
| | - Rocco Malivindi
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, CS, Italy; (F.P.); (M.F.M.); (M.D.); (R.M.); (A.E.L.); (G.P.); (S.P.); (F.P.)
- Macrofarm s.r.l., c/o Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, CS, Italy
| | - Adele Elisabetta Leonetti
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, CS, Italy; (F.P.); (M.F.M.); (M.D.); (R.M.); (A.E.L.); (G.P.); (S.P.); (F.P.)
| | - Giuseppe Pezzi
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, CS, Italy; (F.P.); (M.F.M.); (M.D.); (R.M.); (A.E.L.); (G.P.); (S.P.); (F.P.)
| | - Sabrina Prete
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, CS, Italy; (F.P.); (M.F.M.); (M.D.); (R.M.); (A.E.L.); (G.P.); (S.P.); (F.P.)
| | - Olga Mileti
- Department of Information, Modeling, Electronics and System Engineering, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, CS, Italy; (O.M.); (D.G.)
| | - Domenico Gabriele
- Department of Information, Modeling, Electronics and System Engineering, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, CS, Italy; (O.M.); (D.G.)
| | - Ortensia Ilaria Parisi
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, CS, Italy; (F.P.); (M.F.M.); (M.D.); (R.M.); (A.E.L.); (G.P.); (S.P.); (F.P.)
- Macrofarm s.r.l., c/o Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, CS, Italy
| | - Francesco Puoci
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, CS, Italy; (F.P.); (M.F.M.); (M.D.); (R.M.); (A.E.L.); (G.P.); (S.P.); (F.P.)
- Macrofarm s.r.l., c/o Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, CS, Italy
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7
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Agrawal A, Hussain CM. 3D-Printed Hydrogel for Diverse Applications: A Review. Gels 2023; 9:960. [PMID: 38131946 PMCID: PMC10743314 DOI: 10.3390/gels9120960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Hydrogels have emerged as a versatile and promising class of materials in the field of 3D printing, offering unique properties suitable for various applications. This review delves into the intersection of hydrogels and 3D printing, exploring current research, technological advancements, and future directions. It starts with an overview of hydrogel basics, including composition and properties, and details various hydrogel materials used in 3D printing. The review explores diverse 3D printing methods for hydrogels, discussing their advantages and limitations. It emphasizes the integration of 3D-printed hydrogels in biomedical engineering, showcasing its role in tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, and drug delivery. Beyond healthcare, it also examines their applications in the food, cosmetics, and electronics industries. Challenges like resolution limitations and scalability are addressed. The review predicts future trends in material development, printing techniques, and novel applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arpana Agrawal
- Department of Physics, Shri Neelkantheshwar Government Post-Graduate College, Khandwa 450001, India;
| | - Chaudhery Mustansar Hussain
- Department of Chemistry and Environmental Science, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, NJ 07102, USA
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8
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Botti S, Bonfigli F, D’Amato R, Rodesi J, Santonicola MG. Colorimetric Sensors Based on Poly(acrylic Acid)/TiO 2 Nanocomposite Hydrogels for Monitoring UV Radiation Exposure. Gels 2023; 9:797. [PMID: 37888370 PMCID: PMC10606633 DOI: 10.3390/gels9100797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, there has been an open debate on proper sun exposure to reduce the risk of developing skin cancer. The mainly encountered issue is that general guidelines for UV radiation exposure could not be effective for all skin types. The implementation of customized guidelines requires a method by which to measure the UV dose as a result of daily exposure to sunlight, ideally with an inexpensive, easy-to-read sensor. In this work, we present the characterization of nanocomposite hydrogel materials acting as colorimetric sensors upon exposure to UV light. The sensor was prepared using a poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) hydrogel matrix in which TiO2 nanoparticles and methylene blue (MB) were integrated. Raman mapping was used to determine the network structure of the hydrogel and its water distribution. The TiO2 nanoparticles dispersed in the PAA matrix maintain their photoactivity and catalyze a reaction by which methylene blue is converted into leuko-methylene. The conversion causes a discoloration effect that is visible to the naked eye and can therefore be used as an indicator of UV radiation exposure. Moreover, it was possible to tune the discoloration rate to the limit exposure of each skin type, simply by changing the ratio of titanium dioxide to dye. We obtained a response time ranging from 30 min to 1.5 h. Future work will be dedicated to the possibility of scaling up this range and to improve the sensor wearability; however, our study paves the way to the realisation of sensors suitable for public use, which could help us find a solution to the challenge of balancing sufficient UV exposure to prevent Vitamin D deficiency with excessive UV exposure that could ultimately cause skin cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabina Botti
- Fusion and Technologies for Nuclear Safety and Security Department, Photonics Micro- and Nano-Structures Laboratory, ENEA C.R. Frascati, Via E. Fermi 45, 00044 Frascati, Italy; (F.B.); (R.D.)
| | - Francesca Bonfigli
- Fusion and Technologies for Nuclear Safety and Security Department, Photonics Micro- and Nano-Structures Laboratory, ENEA C.R. Frascati, Via E. Fermi 45, 00044 Frascati, Italy; (F.B.); (R.D.)
| | - Rosaria D’Amato
- Fusion and Technologies for Nuclear Safety and Security Department, Photonics Micro- and Nano-Structures Laboratory, ENEA C.R. Frascati, Via E. Fermi 45, 00044 Frascati, Italy; (F.B.); (R.D.)
| | - Jasmine Rodesi
- Department of Chemical Engineering Materials Environment, Sapienza University of Rome, Via del Castro Laurenziano 7, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Maria Gabriella Santonicola
- Department of Chemical Engineering Materials Environment, Sapienza University of Rome, Via del Castro Laurenziano 7, 00161 Rome, Italy;
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9
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Fu L, Feng Q, Chen Y, Fu J, Zhou X, He C. Nanofibers for the Immunoregulation in Biomedical Applications. ADVANCED FIBER MATERIALS 2022; 4:1334-1356. [DOI: 10.1007/s42765-022-00191-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2025]
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10
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Weigel N, Li Y, Fery A, Thiele J. From microfluidics to hierarchical hydrogel materials. Curr Opin Colloid Interface Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cocis.2022.101673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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11
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Sattayapanich K, Chaiwat W, Boonmark S, Bureekaew S, Sutthasupa S. Alginate-based hydrogels embedded with ZnO nanoparticles as highly responsive colorimetric oxygen indicators. NEW J CHEM 2022. [DOI: 10.1039/d2nj04164b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Simple fabrication of hydrogel-based colorimetric oxygen indicators as alternative smart materials for oxygen sensitive products and systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kodchakorn Sattayapanich
- Division of Packaging Technology, Faculty of Agro-Industry Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50100, Thailand
| | - Weerawut Chaiwat
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, 73170, Thailand
| | - Sininart Boonmark
- School of Energy Science and Engineering, Vidyasirimedhi Institute of Science and Technology, 555 Moo 1 Payupnai, Wangchan, Rayong, 21210, Thailand
| | - Sareeya Bureekaew
- School of Energy Science and Engineering, Vidyasirimedhi Institute of Science and Technology, 555 Moo 1 Payupnai, Wangchan, Rayong, 21210, Thailand
| | - Sutthira Sutthasupa
- Division of Packaging Technology, Faculty of Agro-Industry Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50100, Thailand
- Center of Excellence in Materials Science and Technology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
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12
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Cernencu AI, Dinu AI, Stancu IC, Lungu A, Iovu H. Nanoengineered biomimetic hydrogels: A major advancement to fabricate 3D-printed constructs for regenerative medicine. Biotechnol Bioeng 2021; 119:762-783. [PMID: 34961918 DOI: 10.1002/bit.28020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Nanostructured compounds already validated as performant reinforcements for biomedical applications together with different fabrication strategies have been often used to channel the biophysical and biochemical features of hydrogel networks. Ergo, a wide array of nanostructured compounds has been employed as additive materials integrated with hydrophilic networks based on naturally-derived polymers to produce promising scaffolding materials for specific fields of regenerative medicine. To date, nanoengineered hydrogels are extensively explored in (bio)printing formulations, representing the most advanced designs of hydrogel (bio)inks able to fabricate structures with improved mechanical properties and high print fidelity along with a cell-interactive environment. The development of printing inks comprising organic-inorganic hybrid nanocomposites is in full ascent as the impact of a small amount of nanoscale additive does not translate only in improved physicochemical and biomechanical properties of bioink. The biopolymeric nanocomposites may even exhibit additional particular properties engendered by nano-scale reinforcement such as electrical conductivity, magnetic responsiveness, antibacterial or antioxidation properties. The present review focus on hydrogels nanoengineered for 3D printing of biomimetic constructs, with particular emphasis on the impact of the spatial distribution of reinforcing agents (0D, 1D, 2D). Here, a systematic analysis of the naturally-derived nanostructured inks is presented highlighting the relationship between relevant length scales and size effects that influence the final properties of the hydrogels designed for regenerative medicine. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra I Cernencu
- Advanced Polymer Materials Group, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 1-7 Gh. Polizu Street, 011061, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Andreea I Dinu
- Advanced Polymer Materials Group, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 1-7 Gh. Polizu Street, 011061, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Izabela C Stancu
- Advanced Polymer Materials Group, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 1-7 Gh. Polizu Street, 011061, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Adriana Lungu
- Advanced Polymer Materials Group, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 1-7 Gh. Polizu Street, 011061, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Horia Iovu
- Advanced Polymer Materials Group, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 1-7 Gh. Polizu Street, 011061, Bucharest, Romania.,Academy of Romanian Scientists, 54 Splaiul Independentei, 050094, Bucharest, Romania
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13
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Malekmohammadi S, Sedghi Aminabad N, Sabzi A, Zarebkohan A, Razavi M, Vosough M, Bodaghi M, Maleki H. Smart and Biomimetic 3D and 4D Printed Composite Hydrogels: Opportunities for Different Biomedical Applications. Biomedicines 2021; 9:1537. [PMID: 34829766 PMCID: PMC8615087 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9111537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 10/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, smart/stimuli-responsive hydrogels have drawn tremendous attention for their varied applications, mainly in the biomedical field. These hydrogels are derived from different natural and synthetic polymers but are also composite with various organic and nano-organic fillers. The basic functions of smart hydrogels rely on their ability to change behavior; functions include mechanical, swelling, shaping, hydrophilicity, and bioactivity in response to external stimuli such as temperature, pH, magnetic field, electromagnetic radiation, and biological molecules. Depending on the final applications, smart hydrogels can be processed in different geometries and modalities to meet the complicated situations in biological media, namely, injectable hydrogels (following the sol-gel transition), colloidal nano and microgels, and three dimensional (3D) printed gel constructs. In recent decades smart hydrogels have opened a new horizon for scientists to fabricate biomimetic customized biomaterials for tissue engineering, cancer therapy, wound dressing, soft robotic actuators, and controlled release of bioactive substances/drugs. Remarkably, 4D bioprinting, a newly emerged technology/concept, aims to rationally design 3D patterned biological matrices from synthesized hydrogel-based inks with the ability to change structure under stimuli. This technology has enlarged the applicability of engineered smart hydrogels and hydrogel composites in biomedical fields. This paper aims to review stimuli-responsive hydrogels according to the kinds of external changes and t recent applications in biomedical and 4D bioprinting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samira Malekmohammadi
- Department of Engineering, School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham NG11 8NS, UK;
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran 1665659911, Iran;
- Nanomedicine Research Association (NRA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran 1419733151, Iran;
| | - Negar Sedghi Aminabad
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz 5166653431, Iran; (N.S.A.); (A.S.)
| | - Amin Sabzi
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz 5166653431, Iran; (N.S.A.); (A.S.)
| | - Amir Zarebkohan
- Nanomedicine Research Association (NRA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran 1419733151, Iran;
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz 5166653431, Iran; (N.S.A.); (A.S.)
| | - Mehdi Razavi
- Biionix Cluster, Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL 32827, USA;
| | - Massoud Vosough
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran 1665659911, Iran;
| | - Mahdi Bodaghi
- Department of Engineering, School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham NG11 8NS, UK;
| | - Hajar Maleki
- Department of Chemistry, Institute of Inorganic Chemistry, University of Cologne, 50939 Cologne, Germany
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Finny AS, Popoola O, Andreescu S. 3D-Printable Nanocellulose-Based Functional Materials: Fundamentals and Applications. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 11:2358. [PMID: 34578674 PMCID: PMC8471614 DOI: 10.3390/nano11092358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Nanomaterials obtained from sustainable and natural sources have seen tremendous growth in recent times due to increasing interest in utilizing readily and widely available resources. Nanocellulose materials extracted from renewable biomasses hold great promise for increasing the sustainability of conventional materials in various applications owing to their biocompatibility, mechanical properties, ease of functionalization, and high abundance. Nanocellulose can be used to reinforce mechanical strength, impart antimicrobial activity, provide lighter, biodegradable, and more robust materials for packaging, and produce photochromic and electrochromic devices. While the fabrication and properties of nanocellulose are generally well established, their implementation in novel products and applications requires surface modification, assembly, and manufacturability to enable rapid tooling and scalable production. Additive manufacturing techniques such as 3D printing can improve functionality and enhance the ability to customize products while reducing fabrication time and wastage of materials. This review article provides an overview of nanocellulose as a sustainable material, covering the different properties, preparation methods, printability and strategies to functionalize nanocellulose into 3D-printed constructs. The applications of 3D-printed nanocellulose composites in food, environmental, and energy devices are outlined, and an overview of challenges and opportunities is provided.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Silvana Andreescu
- Department of Chemistry and Biomolecular Science, Clarkson University, Potsdam, New York, NY 13699-5810, USA; (A.S.F.); (O.P.)
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