Poly (vinyl alcohol)-alginate as potential matrix for various applications: A focused review

Advances in polymers have made significant contribution in diverse application oriented fields. Multidisciplinary applicability of polymers generates a range of strategies, which is pertinent in a wide range of fields. Blends of natural and synthetic polymers have spawned a different class of materials with synergistic effects. Specifically, poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and alginate (AG) blends (PVAG) have demonstrated some promising results in almost every segment, ranging from biomedical to industrial sector. Combination of PVAG with other materials, immobilization with specific moieties and physical and chemical crosslinking could result in amendments in the structure and properties of the PVAG matrices. Here, we provide an overview of the recent developments in designing PVAG based matrix and complexes with their structural and functional properties. The article also provides a comprehensive outline on the applicability of PVAG matrix in wastewater treatment, biomedical, photocatalysis, food packaging, and fuel cells and sheds light on the challenges that need to be addressed. Finally, the review elaborates the future prospective of PVAG matrices in other unexplored fields like aircraft industry, nuclear science and space exploration.

Automated summary

Advances in polymers have led to their wide application in various fields. Blending natural and synthetic polymers has resulted in the development of materials with synergistic effects. Poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and alginate (AG) blends (PVAG) have shown promising results in biomedical and industrial sectors. This review summarizes the recent progress in designing PVAG matrices and complexes and discusses their structure and functional properties. The applicability of PVAG matrices in wastewater treatment, biomedical applications, photocatalysis, food packaging, and fuel cells is comprehensively outlined. Moreover, the review highlights the challenges that need to be addressed and explores the potential of PVAG matrices in unexplored fields like aircraft industry, nuclear science, and space exploration.