The Benefits of Hydrogel

Water holding capacity
 & other basic properties

• Holds 100x its weight in water

• Shear thinning (Its viscosity decreases when shear force is applied - practically, this means that a very thick hydrogel can be applied by spray or pump, and will immediately become thick again after spraying

Biomedical properties

• Speeds up healing of skin wounds

• Reduces scar formation

• Biocompatible (doesn’t trigger immune reaction or inflammation)

• Comfortable for patients

• Doesn’t stick to wounds like traditional bandages

• Requires minimal dressing changes

• For skin wounds, nanocellulose dressings automatically detach from the wound site once skin has healed

• Drug delivery

• Biosensing

Cosmetic properties

• Moisturising

• Minimises the appearance of wrinkles

• Thickens formulations (rheology modifier)

• Aids in the delivery of active ingredients by keeping skin moist

Paper and Packaging

Enhancing the strength and reducing the weight of paper products. It's especially useful in creating eco-friendly packaging materials.

Composite Materials

In automotive and aerospace industries, nanocellulose is used to create lightweight and strong composite materials.

Electronics

Nanocellulose is utilized in flexible electronics and as a substrate for electronic displays due to its excellent mechanical properties and transparency.

Water Filtration

It's used in water purification systems for removing contaminants due to its fine filtration capabilities.

Cosmetics

In cosmetic products, it's used as a thickener, emulsifier, or in controlled release systems.

Food Industry

Nanocellulose is added to food products as a thickening, stabilizing, or emulsifying agent. It's also used in edible packaging.

Textiles

Improving the strength and durability of fabrics and also used in the production of advanced textiles with enhanced properties.

Paints and Coatings

Used as an additive in paints and coatings for improving texture, durability, and UV resistance.

Energy Storage

As a component in batteries and supercapacitors due to its high surface area and conductive properties.

These applications showcase the versatility and potential of nanocellulose across various sectors, reflecting its growing importance in material science and engineering.