Mechanical and Chemical Behaviour of Nanoparticles in Multicomponent Dressings: Promoting Wound Healing with Novel Materials, Intelligent Monitoring, and Enhanced Healing Outcomes

Nanoparticles in wound dressings enhance bacterial infection management by integrating antibacterial types into multi-component designs, improving antimicrobial properties and overall effectiveness. The benefits of adding nanoparticles to wound dressings include increased contact surface area with the bed of the wound, targeted drug delivery, and enhanced antimicrobial activity (e.g., 70–99% bacterial reduction against common pathogens like S. aureus and P. aeruginosa in vitro). This review synthesizes findings from over 200 peer-reviewed articles, reviews, and significant reports identified through comprehensive searches of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, focusing on literature published within the last decade (2014-2024), with emphasis on the most recent advancements. Inclusion criteria prioritized studies on nanoparticle integration (particularly antibacterial types), multi-component designs, smart/functional dressings (e.g., stimuli-responsive, self-healing, monitoring), their mechanical/chemical behavior, biocompatibility, antimicrobial efficacy, and impact on healing stages. However, despite their promising future, significant challenges persist. Clinical data indicate that nanoparticle biocompatibility issues arise in ~40% of trials, manifesting as localized inflammation or systemic toxicity (e.g., silver ion accumulation in renal tissues). Similarly, stability failures affect 25–30% of commercial nano-dressings, leading to premature drug leakage and reduced antimicrobial efficacy during storage. These hurdles underscore the need for advanced coatings and composite designs. To overcome these challenges, researchers are exploring advanced coatings and composite designs to enhance nanoparticle stability and biocompatibility without compromising antimicrobial effectiveness. These innovations promise to introduce new antibacterial nanoparticles and multi-component dressings tailored for various wound types, potentially offering significant economic and environmental advantages.