Open Access

REVIEW

Advances in the Construction and Application of Lignin-Based Hydrogels

Jiazi Wang, Yanxia An^*, Jingyuan Su, Keke Liu, Jian Zhang, Yang Zhao, Linlin Li

College of Food Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China

* Corresponding Author: Yanxia An. Email:

Journal of Renewable Materials 2026, 14(2), 2 https://doi.org/10.32604/jrm.2025.02025-0151

Received 29 July 2025; Accepted 04 September 2025; Issue published 25 February 2026

Abstract

Lignin, the most abundant natural aromatic polymer globally, has garnered considerable interest due to its rich and diverse active functional groups and its antioxidant, antimicrobial, and adhesive properties. Recent research has significantly improved the performance of lignin-based hydrogels, suggesting their substantial potential in fields such as biomedicine, environmental science, and agriculture. This paper reviews the process of lignin extraction, systematically introduces synthesis strategies for preparing lignin-based hydrogels, and discusses the current state of research on these hydrogels in biomedical and environmental protection fields. It concludes by identifying the existing challenges in lignin hydrogel research and envisioning future prospects and development trends.

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