Polymer and Biopolymer Nanocomposites for Emerging Medical, Industrial, and Environmental Applications

Dear Colleagues,

Nanocomposites made of polymers and biopolymers have gained popularity in recent years due to their adaptability, better mechanical qualities, and multifunctionality. The incorporation of nanoparticles into polymer matrices has resulted in ground-breaking advances in a variety of disciplines, including medicine, industrial, and environmental protection. This Topic will look at the most recent breakthroughs in polymer and biopolymer nanocomposites, highlighting their new uses and addressing the issues of their synthesis, characterization, and performance. Scope and objectives: This Topic aims to provide a comprehensive platform for researchers to discuss cutting-edge research on polymer and biopolymer nanocomposites, with emphasis on their synthesis, structural characteristics, functionalization, and applications. The key objectives include the following:

• Exploring novel polymer and biopolymer-based nanocomposites with tailored physicochemical properties.
• Investigating their potential in medical applications, such as drug delivery, wound healing, tissue engineering, and hemostatic agents.
• Evaluating their industrial applications, including coatings, packaging, and advanced manufacturing processes.
• Assessing their role in environmental applications, such as wastewater treatment, air filtration, and biodegradable materials.
• Addressing challenges related to biocompatibility, scalability, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness.

Key topics authors are invited to contribute original research articles, review papers, and short communications on topics including, but not limited to, the following:

• Development and characterization of polymer and biopolymer nanocomposites.
• Smart and stimuli-responsive nanocomposites for biomedical applications.
• Green synthesis and eco-friendly processing techniques for biopolymer nanocomposites.
• Advanced fabrication techniques, including electrospinning and 3D printing.
• Role of nanofillers such as carbon-based materials, metal nanoparticles, and clay in enhancing polymer properties.
• Functionalized nanocomposites for targeted drug delivery and bioimaging.
• Antimicrobial and wound healing applications of biopolymer-based nanocomposites.
• Industrial advancements in coatings, adhesives, and packaging using nanocomposites.
• Environmental remediation applications, including pollutant adsorption and filtration.
• Biodegradable and sustainable polymer nanocomposites for reducing plastic waste.

Dr. Madhappan Santhamoorthy
Prof. Dr. Seongcheol Kim
Topic Editors