Polymeric Systems as Hydrogels and Membranes Containing Silver Nanoparticles for Biomedical and Food Applications: Recent Approaches and Perspectives
Alexandra Nicolae-Maranciuc, Dan Chicea
Abstract
Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have garnered significant attention due to their potent antimicrobial properties and broad-spectrum efficacy against pathogens. Recent advances in polymer science have enabled the development of AgNPs-integrated hydrogels and membranes, offering multifunctional platforms for biomedical and food-related applications. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent strategies for synthesizing and incorporating AgNPs into polymeric matrices, highlighting both natural and synthetic polymers as carriers. The structural and functional properties of these nanocomposite systems, such as biocompatibility, mechanical stability, controlled silver ion release, and antimicrobial activity, are critically examined. The focus is placed on their application in wound healing, drug delivery, food packaging, and preservation technologies. Challenges such as cytotoxicity, long-term stability, and regulatory concerns are discussed alongside emerging trends and safety paradigms. This work underscores the potential of AgNPs-polymer hybrids as next-generation materials and outlines future directions for their sustainable and targeted application in biomedical and food systems.