**5. Future perspectives**

We expect that the discussion in this chapter on the effects of different nanomaterials on the physical and chemical properties of nanocomposite hydrogels and their eventual application in different types of tissue engineering will be useful for the design, fabrication, and production of new generation nanocomposite hydrogel materials. Nanocomposite hydrogels are a new generation of 3D biomaterials for many different applications, including kinds of tissue engineering. The introduction of different nanomaterials in a polymer hydrogel network leads to the formation of nanocomposite systems with different functions. For instance, the addition of conductive nanomaterials into the polymer hydrogel matrix, such as Ppy, carbon nanotubes, graphene, and metal-based nanoparticles, not only provides mechanically strong hydrogels but also imparts conductivity to the hydrogel. These nanocomposite hydrogels can be used for the regeneration and repair of electroactive tissues, such as nerve, cardiac, and skeletal muscle tissues. Additionally, the introduction of rigid nanomaterials, such as nHAp, tricalcium phosphate, bioglass into the hydrogel matrix, can enhance its mechanical properties and promote the occurrence of mineralization inside the scaffolds. These nanocomposite hydrogels can be used for bone or cartilage tissues repair. In addition to these, some nanocomposite hydrogels can even be used in skin and vascular tissue engineering.

We believe that high-performance nanocomposite hydrogels with excellent mechanical properties, ordered structures, and novel functions will soon be used in tissue engineering applications.

*Nanocomposite Materials for Biomedical and Energy Storage Applications*
