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Gels
Volume 11
Issue 5
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Gels, Volume 11, Issue 5 (May 2025) – 6 articles

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19 pages, 6356 KiB  
Article
The Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Adsorbents Based on Acrylamide Hydrogels and Cryogels for Water Purification from Radioactive Contaminants
by Yuriy Artamonov, Pavel Krivitskiy, Fail Zhamaldinov, Vladimir Aseyev and Alexey Klivenko
Gels 2025, 11(5), 311; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels11050311 (registering DOI) - 22 Apr 2025
Abstract
The article presents the assessment results on the effectiveness of polymer hydrogel and cryogel-based adsorbents for treating natural waters from radioactive contaminants. Nine polymer gels were synthesized, their physico-chemical properties studied, and the processes of selective adsorption of radioactive elements such as 137 [...] Read more.
The article presents the assessment results on the effectiveness of polymer hydrogel and cryogel-based adsorbents for treating natural waters from radioactive contaminants. Nine polymer gels were synthesized, their physico-chemical properties studied, and the processes of selective adsorption of radioactive elements such as 137Cs, 90Sr, and other chemical elements in aqueous solutions were investigated using polymer gels. The effectiveness of radioactive element adsorption from aqueous solutions by polymer hydrogels and cryogels was evaluated by placing different pure samples of the synthesized gels in radioactively contaminated aqueous solutions. At the same time, the activity of the aqueous solution was measured before placing the polymer gel into it. Then, the polymer gel was placed in the aqueous solution for 3 days. Afterward, the activity of the polymer gel was measured after it was extracted from the aqueous solution. The best adsorption characteristics and selectivity with respect to 137Cs was demonstrated by hydrogels AM:AA/3—2.4 × 10−8 mg/g, AM:AA/2—4.1 × 10−9 mg/g, and AM:AA/5—3.7 × 10−9 mg/g. Cryogel MAA:AM—7.0 × 10−8 mg/g, hydrogel AM:AA/2—5.1 × 10−8 mg/g, and hydrogel AM:AA/5—1.5 × 10−8 mg/g exhibit the highest selectivity for 90Sr. An adsorption potential has been demonstrated by the synthesized polymer gels with respect to such chemical elements as K, Fe, Ni, and U. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Gel Applications)
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24 pages, 10448 KiB  
Article
Preparation and Physicochemical Properties of High-Temperature-Resistant Polymer Gel Resin Composite Plugging Material
by Tao Wang, Weian Huang, Jinzhi Zhu, Chengli Li, Guochuan Qin and Haiying Lu
Gels 2025, 11(5), 310; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels11050310 (registering DOI) - 22 Apr 2025
Abstract
Lost circulation has become one of the important problems restricting the speed and efficiency of oil and gas drilling and production. To address severe drilling fluid losses in high-temperature fractured formations during deep/ultra-deep well drilling, this study developed a high-temperature and high-strength gelled [...] Read more.
Lost circulation has become one of the important problems restricting the speed and efficiency of oil and gas drilling and production. To address severe drilling fluid losses in high-temperature fractured formations during deep/ultra-deep well drilling, this study developed a high-temperature and high-strength gelled resin gel plugging system through optimized resin matrix selection, latent curing agent, flow regulator, filling material, etc. Comparative analysis of five thermosetting resins revealed urea-formaldehyde resin as the optimal matrix, demonstrating complete curing at 100–140 °C with a compressive strength of 9.3 MPa. An organosilicon crosslsinker-enabled water-soluble urea-formaldehyde resin achieved controlled solubility and flow–cure balance under elevated temperatures. Orthogonal experiments identified that a 10% latent curing agent increased compressive strength to 6.26 MPa while precisely regulating curing time to 2–2.5 h. Incorporating 0.5% rheological modifier imparted shear-thinning and static-thickening behaviors, synergizing pumpability with formation retention. The optimal formula (25% urea-formaldehyde resin, 10% latent curing agent, 10% high-fluid-loss filler, 0.5% rheological modifier) exhibited superior thermal stability (initial decomposition temperature 241 °C) and mechanical integrity (bearing pressure 13.95 MPa in 7 mm wedge-shaped fractures at 140 °C). Microstructural characterization confirmed interlocking crystalline layers through ether-bond crosslinking, providing critical insights for high-temperature wellbore stabilization. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gels for Oil and Gas Industry Applications (3rd Edition))
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23 pages, 3762 KiB  
Review
From Basic to Breakthroughs: The Journey of Microfluidic Devices in Hydrogel Droplet Generation
by Gabriela Hinojosa-Ventura, José Manuel Acosta-Cuevas, Carlos Arnulfo Velázquez-Carriles, Diego E. Navarro-López, Miguel Ángel López-Alvarez, Néstor D. Ortega-de la Rosa and Jorge Manuel Silva-Jara
Gels 2025, 11(5), 309; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels11050309 (registering DOI) - 22 Apr 2025
Abstract
Hydrogel particles are essential in biological applications because of their distinctive capacity to retain water and encapsulate active molecules within their three-dimensional structure. Typical particle sizes range from nanometers (10–500 nm) to micrometers (1–500 µm), depending on the specific application and method of [...] Read more.
Hydrogel particles are essential in biological applications because of their distinctive capacity to retain water and encapsulate active molecules within their three-dimensional structure. Typical particle sizes range from nanometers (10–500 nm) to micrometers (1–500 µm), depending on the specific application and method of preparation. These characteristics render them optimal carriers for the administration of active compounds, facilitating the regulated and prolonged release of pharmaceuticals, including anticancer agents, antibiotics, and therapeutic proteins. Hydrogel particles can exhibit various morphologies, including spherical, rod-shaped, disk-shaped, and core–shell structures. Each shape offers distinct advantages, such as improved circulation time, targeted drug delivery, or enhanced cellular uptake. Additionally, hydrogel particles can be engineered to respond to various stimuli, such as temperature, pH, light, magnetic fields, and biochemical signals. Furthermore, their biocompatibility and capacity to acclimate to many biological conditions make them appropriate for sophisticated applications, including gene treatments, tissue regeneration, and cell therapies. Microfluidics has transformed the creation of hydrogel particles, providing precise control over their dimensions, morphology, and stability. This technique facilitates reproducible and highly efficient production, reducing reagent waste and optimizing drug encapsulation. The integration of microfluidics with hydrogels provides opportunities for the advancement of creative and effective solutions in contemporary medicine. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gels: 10th Anniversary)
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15 pages, 3543 KiB  
Article
Photoactivated Curcumin-Loaded Lipid Nanoparticles in Hydrogel: A Cutting-Edge Intracanal Medicament for Advanced Endodontic Therapy
by Sónia Ferreira, Liliana Grenho, Maria H. Fernandes and Sofia A. Costa Lima
Gels 2025, 11(5), 308; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels11050308 - 22 Apr 2025
Abstract
Intracanal reinfections continue to pose a major challenge in endodontic treatment. Photodynamic therapy has emerged as a promising antimicrobial strategy. Regarding this, curcumin (CUR), a natural photosensitizer, shows potential in this context, but its application is hampered by poor solubility and rapid degradation. [...] Read more.
Intracanal reinfections continue to pose a major challenge in endodontic treatment. Photodynamic therapy has emerged as a promising antimicrobial strategy. Regarding this, curcumin (CUR), a natural photosensitizer, shows potential in this context, but its application is hampered by poor solubility and rapid degradation. This study aimed to develop and characterize a CUR-loaded nanoparticle-enriched hydrogel to enhance its stability, sustain its release, and evaluate its antimicrobial efficacy upon photoactivation (PhAc). Curcumin-loaded nanoparticles were synthesized and incorporated into a hydrogel matrix, followed by characterization using scanning electron microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, in vitro CUR release studies, and rheological analysis. Antibiofilm activity against Enterococcus faecalis was assessed under both photoactivated and non-photoactivated conditions. Cytocompatibility was analyzed through fibroblast viability assays and fluorescence staining. The CUR-containing hydrogel demonstrated a sustained release profile extending beyond 72 h. Rheological studies confirmed its shear-thinning behavior, ensuring injectability even after post-photoactivation. Antibiofilm assays revealed a significant reduction in E. faecalis biofilms, with PhAc formulations exhibiting markedly enhanced antibacterial efficacy compared to their non-PhAc counterparts. Cytocompatibility assays confirmed that all formulations, including those subjected to PDT, preserved fibroblast viability, indicating biocompatibility suitable for clinical use. In sum, the CUR-containing hydrogel exhibits properties that support its potential as an effective intracanal therapeutic, combining antimicrobial and photodynamic effects to help prevent reinfections in endodontic treatments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Gels for Dental Applications)
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18 pages, 4725 KiB  
Article
Tissue-Adhesive and Biocompatible Zein-Polyaniline-Based Hydrogels for Mechanoresponsive Energy-Harvesting Applications
by Maduru Suneetha, Seainn Bang, Sarah A. Alshehri and Sung Soo Han
Gels 2025, 11(5), 307; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels11050307 - 22 Apr 2025
Abstract
Flexible, biocompatible, and adhesive materials are vital for wearable strain sensors in bioelectronics. This study presents zein-polyaniline (ZPANI) hydrogels with mechanoresponsive energy-harvesting properties. SEM revealed a sheet-like fibrous morphology, enhancing adhesion. Incorporating 0.5 wt% polyaniline (PANI) introduced nanostructured aggregates, while higher PANI concentrations [...] Read more.
Flexible, biocompatible, and adhesive materials are vital for wearable strain sensors in bioelectronics. This study presents zein-polyaniline (ZPANI) hydrogels with mechanoresponsive energy-harvesting properties. SEM revealed a sheet-like fibrous morphology, enhancing adhesion. Incorporating 0.5 wt% polyaniline (PANI) introduced nanostructured aggregates, while higher PANI concentrations (3–5 wt%) formed intertwined fibrous networks, improving the mechanical integrity, surface area, and conductivity. PANI enhanced electrical conductivity, and the hydrogels displayed excellent swelling behavior, ensuring flexibility and strong tissue adhesion. Biocompatibility was validated through fibroblast cell culture assays, and the adhesive properties were tested on substrates, such as porcine skin, steel, and aluminum, demonstrating versatile adhesion. The adhesion strength of hydrogels to porcine skin was greatly enhanced with an increasing amount of PANI. The maximum adhesion strength was found to be 30.1 ± 2.1 kPa for ZPANI-5.0. Mechanical testing showed a trade-off between strength and conductivity. The tensile strength decreased from 13.4 kPa (ZPANI-0) to 7.1 kPa (ZPANI-5.0), and the compressive strength declined from 18.5 kPa to 1.6 kPa, indicating increased brittleness. A rheological analysis revealed enhanced strain tolerance (>500% strain) with an increasing PANI content. The storage modulus (G′) remained stable up to 100% strain in PANI-free hydrogels but collapsed beyond 450% strain, while PANI-containing hydrogels exhibited improved viscoelasticity. Mechanical testing showed robust voltage output signals under compression within a 20 s response time. Despite the reduced mechanical strength, energy-harvesting tests showed a surface power density of 0.12 nW cm−2, charge storage of 0.71 nJ, and a surface energy density of 1.4 pWh cm−2. The synergy of the piezoelectric response, bioadhesion, and tunable viscoelasticity establishes ZPANI hydrogels as promising candidates for wearable sensors and energy-harvesting applications. Optimizing the PANI content is crucial for balancing mechanical stability, adhesion, and electrical performance, ensuring long-term bioelectronic functionality. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Towards Smart Gel Material for Flexible and Wearable Electronics)
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28 pages, 4902 KiB  
Review
Advancements in the Field of Protein-Based Hydrogels: Main Types, Characteristics, and Their Applications
by Gábor Katona, Bence Sipos and Ildikó Csóka
Gels 2025, 11(5), 306; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels11050306 - 22 Apr 2025
Abstract
Regenerative medicine is a challenging field in current research and development, whilst translating the findings of novel tissue regenerative agents into clinical application. Protein-based hydrogels are derived from various sources, with animal-derived products being primarily utilized to deliver cells and promote cell genesis [...] Read more.
Regenerative medicine is a challenging field in current research and development, whilst translating the findings of novel tissue regenerative agents into clinical application. Protein-based hydrogels are derived from various sources, with animal-derived products being primarily utilized to deliver cells and promote cell genesis and proliferation, thereby aiding in numerous indications, including bone tissue regeneration, cartilage regeneration, spinal cord injury, and wound healing. As biocompatible and biodegradable systems, they are tolerated by the human body, allowing them to exert their beneficial effects in many indications. In this review article, multiple types of animal-derived proteins (e.g., collagen, gelatin, serum albumin, fibrin) were described, and a selection of the recent literature was collected to support the claims behind these innovative systems. During the literature review, special indications were found when applying these hydrogels, including the therapeutic option to treat post-myocardial infarct sites, glaucoma, and others. Maintaining their structure and mechanical integrity is still challenging. It is usually solved by adding (semi)synthetic polymers or small molecules to strengthen or loosen the mechanical stress in the hydrogel’s structure. All in all, this review points out the potential application of value-added delivery systems in regenerative medicine. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Protein Gels and Their Applications)
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