From Biomass to Functional Gels: Multiscale Topology Reconstruction and High‐Performance Applications

ABSTRACT With over 400 million tons of plastic waste generated annually, developing advanced soft matter from renewable biomass is critical for carbon neutrality. Bio‐based gels offer exceptional biocompatibility and degradability, emerging as sustainable alternatives to petroleum‐based polymers. However, native biopolymers suffer from weak mechanical properties, poor environmental adaptability, and limited functionality, restricting their practical applications. To overcome these bottlenecks, recent research focuses on multiscale network topology reconstruction and synergistic enhancement of dynamic interactions. This review constructs a comprehensive framework from “biomass raw materials” to “functionalized design” and “high‐value applications.” We elucidate microscopic mechanisms driving toughening, self‐healing, and extreme environmental tolerance, including dual‐network entanglement, nanocomposites, and medium engineering. Furthermore, we discuss transformative applications of functionalized bio‐based gels in biomedical engineering, flexible electronics, environmental remediation, smart packaging, and green energy storage.

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Publication Details

Journal
Advanced Functional Materials
Published
2026-07-17
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1002/adfm.77142
Primary Topic
Hydrogels: synthesis, properties, applications
Type
article
Field-Weighted Citation Impact
0.00

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article

From Biomass to Functional Gels: Multiscale Topology Reconstruction and High‐Performance Applications

Dawei Zhao, Donghan Li, Xin Zhao, Tongtong Shen et al.
Advanced Functional Materials
Hydrogels: synthesis, properties, applications
article

From Biomass to Functional Gels: Multiscale Topology Reconstruction and High‐Performance Applications

Dawei Zhao, Donghan Li, Xin Zhao, Tongtong Shen, Ke Li, Zhenzhen Gu, Xiaohaohan Chang
article en

Abstract

ABSTRACT With over 400 million tons of plastic waste generated annually, developing advanced soft matter from renewable biomass is critical for carbon neutrality. Bio‐based gels offer exceptional biocompatibility and degradability, emerging as sustainable alternatives to petroleum‐based polymers. However, native biopolymers suffer from weak mechanical properties, poor environmental adaptability, and limited functionality, restricting their practical applications. To overcome these bottlenecks, recent research focuses on multiscale network topology reconstruction and synergistic enhancement of dynamic interactions. This review constructs a comprehensive framework from “biomass raw materials” to “functionalized design” and “high‐value applications.” We elucidate microscopic mechanisms driving toughening, self‐healing, and extreme environmental tolerance, including dual‐network entanglement, nanocomposites, and medium engineering. Furthermore, we discuss transformative applications of functionalized bio‐based gels in biomedical engineering, flexible electronics, environmental remediation, smart packaging, and green energy storage.

Advanced Functional Materials
Shenyang University of Technology (CN), Northeast Forestry University (CN), Shenyang University of Chemical Technology (CN)
National Natural Science Foundation of China
Responsible consumption and production
Openalex Percentile: Top 15%
Hydrogels: synthesis, properties, applications
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