Polymeric Biomaterials Research Articles

Hydrogel-Forming Microneedles in the Management of Dermal Disorders Through a Non-Invasive Process: A Review

Microneedle (MN) technology has emerged as a promising approach for delivering therapeutic agents to the skin, offering significant potential in treating various dermal conditions. Among these technologies, hydrogel-forming microneedles (HFMNs) represent a transformative advancement in the management of dermal diseases through non-invasive drug delivery. These innovative devices consist of micrometer-sized needles made of native or crosslinked hydrophilic polymers, capable of penetrating the stratum corneum without damaging underlying tissues. Upon insertion, HFMNs rapidly absorb interstitial fluid, swelling to form a hydrogel conduit that enables the efficient transport of therapeutic agents directly into the dermal microcirculation. The non-invasive nature of HFMNs enhances patient compliance by eliminating the pain and discomfort associated with traditional hypodermic needles. This technology allows for the delivery of a wide range of drugs, including macromolecules and biomacromolecules, which are often difficult to administer dermally due to their size and polarity. Moreover, HFMNs provide controlled and regulated release profiles, enabling sustained therapeutic effects while minimizing systemic side effects. Additionally, HFMNs can be used for both drug delivery and real-time interstitial fluid monitoring, offering valuable insights into disease states and treatment responses. This dual functionality positions HFMNs as a versatile dermatology tool capable of effectively addressing various dermal complications. This review explores the potential use of polymeric biomaterials in HFMN fabrication and their application in treating major dermal disorders, such as acne, psoriasis, and other skin conditions. Furthermore, the review highlights the non-invasive nature of MN-based treatments, underscoring their potential to reduce patient discomfort and improve treatment adherence, as supported by the recent literature.

Transformative Biomaterials in Burn Care: Utilizing Scaffolds, Hydrogels, and Chitosan for Optimized Healing and Scar Reduction

With over a million patients per year in the USA alone, burns are among the most common injuries in the world. In addition to preventing difficulties during burn injuries, the growing impact of scaffolds, hydrogels, cell scaffolds, and cell sheets with healing boosting elements expedite triggers and strengthens re-epithelialization and wound healing, which limits the creation of scars. While superficial partial-thickness and superficial burns typically heal without surgery, severe burns require special care, including topical antimicrobial surgery or bandages. Usually composed of polymeric biomaterials, scaffolds offer the structural support needed for cell adhesion and the subsequent formation of tissue. The term "tissue engineering triad" often refers to cells, scaffolds, and growth-stimulating signals. This may be accomplished in several ways by combining different polymers. Simple (planar) 3D structures may be produced using conventional and rapid prototyping techniques, but complicated structures have been successfully produced by carefully controlling the Molds and processing parameters. For biomedical and tissue engineering applications, chitosan has been widely employed (skin, bone, cartilage, and vascular grafts to substrates for mammalian cell culture). Additionally, it is renewable, biocompatible, biodegradable, nonantigenic, bioactive, and nontoxic.

Fabrication and Enhanced Flexibility of Starch-Based Cross-Linked Films.

The development of sustainable materials has driven significant interest in starch as a renewable and biodegradable polymer. However, the inherent brittleness, hydrophilicity, and lack of thermoplasticity of native starch limit its application in material science. This study addresses the limitations of native starch by converting it to dialdehyde starch (DAS) and cross-linking with polyether diamines via imine bonds. The effects of Jeffamine molecular weights (D-2000, D-400, and D-230) and mole ratios on the mechanical, thermal, and structural properties of starch-based films were examined. The cross-linked DAS/Js films exhibited significant enhancements in flexibility and toughness. Specifically, DAS/J2000 at a 0.03 mol ratio achieved a tensile strength of 62.9 MPa. In comparison, DAS/J400 at a 0.5 mol ratio demonstrated 126.2% elongation at break, indicating the balance between cross-linking density and chain mobility. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed reduced crystallinity and tighter molecular packing with increased cross-linking. Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) indicated a decrease in Tg with an increasing mole ratio, reflecting enhanced molecular mobility. The results underscore the potential of optimized cross-linking conditions to produce starch-based films with properties that contribute to developing sustainable biopolymer materials.

Sustainable Biopolymers in Eco-Friendly Triboelectric Energy Harvesting.

Biopolymer-based triboelectric nanogenerators (B-TENGs) represent an innovative fusion of eco-friendly, sustainable energy-harvesting technology with renewable and environmentally benign biopolymer material. This integration not only introduces novel pathways for advancing green energy solutions but also offers a critical approach to addressing contemporary environmental challenges and fostering sustainable progress. Over the past few years, B-TENGs have seen rapid and remarkable growth in the realm of biopolymers, device architecture, and their applications (e.g., implantable power source, electronic medicine, human anatomical and physiological movements monitoring sensors, etc.). In this review article, the promising developments in harnessing triboelectric biopolymers are encapsulated, enumerate their representative applications, evaluate the pros and cons of these biopolymers, highlight key challenges for future research, and offer strategic recommendations for innovating and realizing advanced B-TENGs.

3D-Printed Polymeric Biomaterials for Health Applications.

3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, holds immense potential for rapid prototyping and customized production of functional health-related devices. With advancements in polymer chemistry and biomedical engineering, polymeric biomaterials have become integral to 3D-printed biomedical applications. However, there still exists a bottleneck in the compatibility of polymeric biomaterials with different 3D printing methods, as well as intrinsic challenges such as limited printing resolution and rates. Therefore, this review aims to introduce the current state-of-the-art in 3D-printed functional polymeric health-related devices. It begins with an overview of the landscape of 3D printing techniques, followed by an examination of commonly used polymeric biomaterials. Subsequently, examples of 3D-printed biomedical devices are provided and classified into categories such as biosensors, bioactuators, soft robotics, energy storage systems, self-powered devices, and data science in bioplotting. The emphasis is on exploring the current capabilities of 3D printing in manufacturing polymeric biomaterials into desired geometries that facilitate device functionality and studying the reasons for material choice. Finally, an outlook with challenges and possible improvements in the near future is presented, projecting the contribution of general 3D printing and polymeric biomaterials in the field of healthcare.

Rational design of alginate-derived network binder for high-performance silicon-based anodes in Li-ion batteries

This study developed a novel alginate-derived network binder, SAH, to enhance the performance and stability of silicon-based anodes in lithium-ion batteries. Integrating acrylic acid and 2-hydroxyethyl acrylate with sodium alginate through a one-pot polymerization and in-situ cross-linking method, SAH effectively addresses the volumetric expansion challenges associated with silicon anodes. This innovative binder maintains the structural integrity of the silicon anode through its rigid acrylic acid component, while the flexible acrylic-2-hydroxyethyl ester serves as a dynamic buffer to enhance flexibility. Sodium alginate contributes its intrinsic beneficial properties and imparts a robust three-dimensional network structure through effective coupling, allowing the binder to accommodate silicon volume changes during battery operation. Consequently, lithium-ion batteries incorporating this binder exhibited improved stability and extended cycle life, achieving an impressive capacity retention rate of 87.3 % after 100 cycles at 0.5C. This study highlights the potential of biopolymeric materials in enhancing the functionality of silicon-based anodes, contributing to the ongoing development of high-performance energy storage technologies.

Synergistic Integration of Carbon Quantum Dots in Biopolymer Matrices: An Overview of Current Advancements in Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Active Packaging

Approximately one-third of the world’s food production, i.e., 1.43 billion tons, is wasted annually, resulting in economic losses of nearly USD 940 billion and undermining food system sustainability. This waste depletes resources, contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, and negatively affects food security and prices. Although traditional packaging preserves food quality, it cannot satisfy the demands of extended shelf life, safety, and sustainability. Consequently, active packaging using biopolymer matrices containing antioxidants and antimicrobials is a promising solution. This review examines the current advancements in the integration of carbon quantum dots (CQDs) into biopolymer-based active packaging, focusing on their antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. CQDs provide unique advantages over traditional nanoparticles and natural compounds, including high biocompatibility, tunable surface functionality, and environmental sustainability. This review explores the mechanisms through which CQDs impart antioxidant and antimicrobial activities, their synthesis methods, and their functionalization to optimize the efficacy of biopolymer matrices. Recent studies have highlighted that CQD-enhanced biopolymers maintain biodegradability with enhanced antioxidant and antimicrobial functions. Additionally, potential challenges, such as toxicity, regulatory considerations, and scalability are discussed, offering insights into future research directions and industrial applications. This review demonstrates the potential of CQD-incorporated biopolymer matrices to transform active packaging, aligning with sustainability goals and advancing food preservation technologies.

Application of micro and nano modifying additives in road construction materials

The need for stronger and more sustainable road infrastructure has stimulated research into innovative materials, including micro- and nano-additives, to improve the performance of asphalt and bitumen. This paper aims to summarize the advances in the application of these additives with a focus on improving mechanical, thermal, and environmental properties. The study provides a detailed review of traditional micro-additives such as elastomers and resins, as well as advanced nanomaterials including nano silica, nano clay, and carbon nanoparticles. Methods include analyzing experimental data from recent studies on bitumen modification with biopolymeric materials such as polylactic acid (PLA), which show an increase in molecular weight, softening point, and ductility. The main results show that the use of nano additives improves the durability of the road surface, increases its resistance to cracking, and increases the service life of the material under different climatic conditions. For example, roads modified with nano silica showed a 20-30% improvement in tensile strength and a 15% reduction in deformation. In addition, PLA bitumen modification increased the softening point by 10°C and improved the overall elasticity by 25%. These results emphasize the potential of micro- and nano-additives to create more durable, environmentally friendly, high-performance road materials.

The Influence of the Type and Concentration of Plasticizer on the Properties of Biopolymer Films based on Wild Flax (Camelina Sativa)

The development of biodegradable packaging materials using naturally occurring, renewable biopolymers has gained attraction due to consumer demand for high-quality products and concerns about environmental waste problems. However, the inferior mechanical properties and low water resistance of packaging materials based on natural polymers pose a significant obstacle to their wider use. One of the ways to improve the properties of biopolymer-based packaging materials is the addition of plasticizers during their synthesis. In this work, the influence of the type and concentration of plasticizer on the properties of new biopolymer films based on wild flax (Camelina sativa) was investigated. Camelina sativa oil cake (CSoC) remains after edible oil cold pressing as a by-product. One of the possibilities for its valorization is the synthesis of biopolymer materials. During the synthesis, different plasticizers - glycerol and polyethylene glycol 400 - were added in different concentrations - 20%-60%. The obtained CSoC-based biopolymer films were analyzed for the following properties: Moisture content, solubility, thickness, tensile strength, elongation at break, and water vapor permeability. The results obtained showed significant differences when different plasticizers were applied at different concentrations. The biopolymer film with optimal properties was obtained by adding glycerol at a concentration of 40%.

Electrospinning Recombinant Spider Silk Fibroin-Reinforced PLGA Membranes: A Biocompatible Scaffold for Wound Healing Applications.

Polylactide-polyglycolide (PLGA) is one of the most attractive polymeric biomaterials used to fabricate medical devices for drug delivery and tissue engineering applications. Nevertheless, the utilization of PLGA in load-bearing applications is restricted due to its inadequate mechanical properties. This study examines the potential of recombinant silk fibroin (eADF4), a readily producible biomaterial, as a reinforcing agent for PLGA. The PLGA/eADF4 composite membranes were developed by using the process of electrospinning. The spinnability of the electrospinning solutions and the physicochemical, mechanical, and thermal properties of the composite membranes were characterized. The addition of eADF4 increased the viscosity of the electrospinning solutions and enhanced both the mechanical characteristics and the thermal stability of the composites. This study demonstrates that PLGA membranes reinforced with recombinant spider silk fibroin are noncytotoxic, significantly enhance cell migration and wound closure, and do not trigger an inflammatory response, making them ideal candidates for advanced wound healing applications.

Covalent Pectin/Arabinoxylan Hydrogels: Rheological and Microstructural Characterization.

This research aimed to evaluate the gelation process of ferulated pectin (FP) and ferulated arabinoxylan (AXF) in a new mixed hydrogel and determine its microstructural characteristics. FP from sugar beet (Beta vulgaris) and arabinoxylan from maize (Zea mays) bran were gelled via oxidative coupling using laccase as a crosslinking agent. The dynamic oscillatory rheology of the mixed hydrogel revealed a maximum storage modulus of 768 Pa after 60 min. The scanning electron microscopy images showed that mixed hydrogels possess a microstructure of imperfect honeycomb. The ferulic acid content of the mixed hydrogel was 3.73 mg/g, and ferulic acid dimer 8-5' was the most abundant. The presence of a trimer was also detected. This study reports the distribution and concentration of ferulic acid dimers, and the rheological and microstructural properties of a mixed hydrogel based on FP and AXF, which has promising features as a new covalent biopolymeric material.

Natural polymeric biomaterials for managing peripheral nerve injuries : a novel approach for tissue repair and reconstruction.

Peripheral nerve injury serves as a major challenge to clinicians and researchers due to the complexity and functions of peripheral nerves that play the crucial role of transmitting signals between spinal cord and other human body tissues. Biomaterials offer promising solutions for regeneration of nerve tissues owing to their biodegradability, and biocompatibility. They can be fabricated as hydrogels, scaffolds, nanofibrous matrices, and nanoparticles that can facilitate the release of therapeutic molecules to reduce inflammation and promote neuronal growth. Managing peripheral nerve injuries through natural polymeric based biomaterials represents as a novel approach for tissue repair and reconstruction in the field of regenerative medicine. This correspondence will give an insight into the different types of natural polymeric biomaterials that can be efficiently used in managing peripheral nerve injuries.

Recent Advances in Degradable Biomedical Polymers for Prevention, Diagnosis and Treatment of Diseases.

Biomedical polymers play a key role in preventing, diagnosing, and treating diseases, showcasing a wide range of applications. Their unique advantages, such as rich source, good biocompatibility, and excellent modifiability, make them ideal biomaterials for drug delivery, biomedical imaging, and tissue engineering. However, conventional biomedical polymers suffer from poor degradation in vivo, increasing the risks of bioaccumulation and potential toxicity. To address these issues, degradable biomedical polymers can serve as an alternative strategy in biomedicine. Degradable biomedical polymers can efficiently relieve bioaccumulation in vivo and effectively reduce patient burden in disease management. This review comprehensively introduces the classification and properties of biomedical polymers and the recent research progress of degradable biomedical polymers in various diseases. Through an in-depth analysis of their classification, properties, and applications, we aim to provide strong guidance for promoting basic research and clinical translation of degradable biomedical polymers.

Advancements in biomedical coatings: A comprehensive review of DC magnetron sputtering on Ti–6Al–4V alloy

This study investigates the application of DC magnetron sputtering (MS) technology for producing TiN and ion-substituted Ca-P coatings on dental implant materials, demonstrating ultimate tensile strength (UTS) of 887 MPa, a modulus of elasticity of 11.3 × 106 MPa. The influence of various physical vapor deposition (PVD-MS) parameters—such as substrate temperature, post-heat treatment, deposition duration, discharge power, and bias voltage—on the characteristics of these coatings is examined. The research evaluates the advantages and limitations of PVD-MS in fabricating TiN and Ca-P coatings, with an emphasis on their impact on surface topography and chemical composition, which are critical factors influencing cellular behavior. The study reveals that while ion-substituted HA coatings can enhance cell adhesion, they may also exhibit cytotoxic effects, potentially limiting cell growth. It compares osteogenic cell proliferation rates between low-crystalline HA coatings and highly crystalline variants on Ti-based substrates, highlighting significant performance disparities. Additionally, PVD-MS demonstrates robust adhesion capabilities and facilitates the incorporation of therapeutic ions, effectively replicating bioapatite properties. The addition of coating on the substrate promotes additional strengthening mechanisms of the layers, leading to improved wear resistance compared to an alloyed substrate. Estimated values for hardness range between 7.2 and 8.4 GPa, and for Young's modulus, they range from 126 to 162 GPa. The study highlights the potential of PVD-MS in creating nanostructured Ca-P coatings on biodegradable metals, alloys, and polymeric biomaterials. This technology improves corrosion resistance, biocompatibility, chemical stability, wear resistance, and overall performance in various biomedical applications.

Advancements in Polymer Biomaterials as Scaffolds for Corneal Endothelium Tissue Engineering

Corneal endothelial dysfunction is a leading cause of vision loss globally, frequently requiring corneal transplantation. However, the limited availability of donor tissues, particularly in developing countries, has spurred on the exploration of tissue engineering strategies, with a focus on polymer biomaterials as scaffolds for corneal endotlhelium regeneration. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the advancements in polymer biomaterials, focusing on their role in supporting the growth, differentiation, and functional maintenance of human corneal endothelial cells (CECs). Key properties of scaffold materials, including optical clarity, biocompatibility, biodegradability, mechanical stability, permeability, and surface wettability, are discussed in detail. The review also explores the latest innovations in micro- and nano-topological morphologies, fabrication techniques such as electrospinning and 3D/4D bioprinting, and the integration of drug delivery systems into scaffolds. Despite significant progress, challenges remain in translating these technologies to clinical applications. Future directions for research are highlighted, including the need for improved biomaterial combinations, a deeper understanding of CEC biology, and the development of scalable manufacturing processes. This review aims to serve as a resource for researchers and clinician–scientists seeking to advance the field of corneal endothelium tissue engineering.

Biocompatible triboelectric energy generators (BT-TENGs) for energy harvesting and healthcare applications.

Electronic waste (e-waste) has become a significant environmental and societal challenge, necessitating the development of sustainable alternatives. Biocompatible and biodegradable electronic devices offer a promising solution to mitigate e-waste and provide viable alternatives for various applications, including triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs). This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in biocompatible, biodegradable, and implantable TENGs, emphasizing their potential as energy scavengers for healthcare devices. The review delves into the fabrication processes of self-powered TENGs using natural biopolymers, highlighting their biodegradability and compatibility with biological tissues. It further explores the biomedical applications of ultrasound-based TENGs, including their roles in wound healing and energy generation. Notably, the review presents the novel application of TENGs for vagus nerve stimulation, demonstrating their potential in neurotherapeutic interventions. Key findings include the identification of optimal biopolymer materials for TENG fabrication, the effectiveness of TENGs in energy harvesting from physiological movements, and the potential of these devices in regenerative medicine. Finally, the review discusses the challenges in scaling up the production of implantable TENGs from biomaterials, addressing issues such as mechanical stability, long-term biocompatibility, and integration with existing medical devices, outlining future research opportunities to enhance their performance and broaden their applications in the biomedical field.

Sustainable Polymeric Biomaterials from Alternative Feedstocks.

As materials engineered to interact with biological systems for medical purposes, polymeric biomedical materials have revolutionized and are indispensable in modern healthcare. However, aging populations and improving healthcare standards worldwide have resulted in ever-increasing demands for such biomaterials. Currently, many clinically used polymers are derived from nonrenewable petroleum resources, thus spurring the need for exploring alternatives for the next generation of sustainable biomaterials. Other than biomass, this Perspective also spotlights carbon dioxide and postuse plastics as viable resources potentially suitable for biomaterial production. For each alternative feedstock, key recent developments and practical considerations are discussed, including emerging biomaterial applications, possible feedstock sources, and hindrances toward translation and practical adoption. Other than replacements for petroleum-derived polymers, we explore how utilization of these alternatives capitalizes on their intrinsic physiochemical and material properties to achieve their desired therapeutic effects. We hope that this Perspective can stimulate further development in sustainable biomaterials to achieve practical therapeutic benefits as part of a circular materials economy with minimal environmental impact.

Antibacterial gelatin/tragacanth gum films containing galbanum essential oil for in vitro scratch-healing

Natural substances and bioactive agents possess great potential in wound care based on their ability to promote healing and prevent infection. This study focused on the fabrication of antibacterial wound dressings by combining gelatin (G), tragacanth gum (TG), and galbanum essential oil (GEO) as a loaded drug. TG addition resulted in more elastic and flexible films besides enabling encapsulation of the hydrophobic GEO into the biopolymeric matrix. GEO was utilized as an antibacterial and a wound-healing enhancer for open wounds such as incisions. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) analysis revealed a porous film structure after GEO incorporation. Higher GEO concentration caused reduced swelling and slower degradation. Water vapor transfer rate varied from 596 to 894 g/m2.day, making the films suitable for wound dressings. GEO release exhibited a two-phase profile with prolonged diffusion-controlled release for a higher content of GEO. The films demonstrated dose-dependent antimicrobial activity against S. aureus and E. coli strains. Effectiveness and noteworthy application of this research were approved by scratch assay on human dermal fibroblast cells, and films with 3 % GEO showed 79.42 % wound closure, which is significantly higher than the control sample (55.15 %), indicating promoted cell migration and promising wound healing properties.

Cassava, corn, wheat, and sweet potato native starches: A promising biopolymer in the production of capsules by electrospraying.

Native starches have a high potential for producing capsules by electrospraying despite still being little explored as biopolymeric material. Thus, the present study aimed to investigate the electrospraying capacity of native starches from different sources (cassava, corn, wheat, and sweet potato). The concentration of starch in the polymer solutions was varied from 3% to 10% (w/v) to investigate the impact of both starch source and concentration on the electrospraying process. The study also aimed to deepen scientific knowledge of the behavior of these starches during the process and the characteristics of the resulting capsules. The characterization of the polymeric solutions was carried out regarding rheology and electrical conductivity and the capsules were evaluated by production yield, morphology, size distribution, thermal properties, and crystallinity. Higher viscosities were observed for polymeric solutions obtained from sweet potato starch, compared to other starches at the same polymer concentrations. The increase in starch concentration in polymeric solutions reduced their electrical conductivity, except for corn starch. The production yield of cassava and sweet potato starch capsules was not affected by the polymer concentration in the polymeric solutions, while for corn and wheat starches, there was a reduction in yield as the concentration increased. All starches were able to form capsules. Capsules produced with 7% corn starch showed a more homogeneous size distribution. The electrosprayed starches showed elevated melting temperatures and enthalpies. The capsules produced had an amorphous structure. The starches evaluated in this study proved to be excellent biopolymers for producing capsules by electrospraying, demonstrating possible future uses as encapsulating materials.

The Influence of Filler Particle Size on the Strength Properties and Mechanical Energy Dissipation Capacity of Biopoly(Ethylene Terephthalate) BioPET/Eggshell Biocomposites

This work aims to evaluate how the particle size of a waste filler in the form of eggshells changes the mechanical properties of biopoly(ethylene terephthalate) (bioPET). BioPET was modified with three different waste fractions: 1.60–3 mm—large particles; 1.60–1 mm—medium particles; 1 mm–200 μm—small particles. Waste filler was added to the biopolymer matrix in the amount of 10 wt.%. Static tensile tests, as well as bending and impact tests, were carried out to assess the strength properties of the waste-enriched materials. Dissipation energy changes and relaxation processes were observed and evaluated by means of a low-cycle dynamic test. Waste particles were shown to be an effective modifier of bioPET by increasing its stiffness (all particle sizes) and strength (the smallest ones). Studies of the wetting angle and mechanical energy dissipation in the first hysteresis loops indicate the better adhesion of small particles to the biopolymer and their greater ability to dissipate mechanical energy.