Green Materials for Gel Formulation: Recent Advances, Main Features and Applications

Abstract

Biogels (hydrogels, oleogels, and bigels) are structured systems used as delivery vehicles for bioactive substances. The objective of this study was to provide an updated view of green materials used as biogels, discussing the different aspects related to their formulation. An overview of the application possibilities of these gels in different areas, such as food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and medicine, is reported. Furthermore, an evaluation of the profile of studies using biogels was carried out in the last decades (1980–2023), showing the advances in knowledge about these materials in different application domains. Additionally, a consideration of future demands regarding studies involving biogels from a technological and process engineering point of view is highlighted.

Keywords

• green materials
• bigel
• hydrogel
• organogel
• bioactive delivery