ZnO nanoparticles/polymer nanocomposite hydrogels

Abstract

Unique and highly variable properties of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles (NPs) enable the formation of innovative nanocomposite hydrogels for wound healing applications. Depending on synthesis conditions, ZnO NPs can be obtained with different sizes and morphologies, which demonstrate varying electrical, optical, and thermal properties in addition to antimicrobial properties. Incorporating ZnO NPs into hydrogels can alter the mechanical, adhesive and biological characteristics of hydrogels, which can be used in advantage to develop tunable nanocomposite hydrogels with multiple functionalities for wound healing. Therefore, recent years have seen a tremendous increase in the number of studies that focused on the development of ZnO nanocomposite hydrogels with different approaches. Here in this review, we cover the preparation, physicochemical, and biological properties of ZnO NPs in addition to the challenges and the state of art in terms of their use for the development of nanocomposite hydrogels for wound healing. © 2026 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.