ABSTRACT Alginate‐based hydrogels/microgels (ABHs/ABMs) with and without metal nanoparticles have garnered significant attention owing to their biocompatibility, ease of functionalization, chemical stability, and potential applications across various fields. This article systematically reviews the synthesis, characterization, properties, and applications of alginate‐based hydrogels/microgels with and without metal nanoparticles. Several systems of alginate‐based hydrogels/microgels show responsive behavior to external stimuli such as glucose, temperature, pH, and light which leads to swelling or deswelling in the aqueous media. Stimuli responsive behavior (SRB) of microgels depends on the presence of various functionalities in the polymeric network and makes them an appropriate candidate for applications in nanotechnology, catalysis, biomedicine, sensing, robotic uses, and agriculture. The article provides a critical overview of current research developments and explores future possibilities in this field. The discussion concludes with recommendations for future research to further advance this area.
Muhammad Arif (2026) studied this question.