From:  Mechanisms and kinetics of drug release from lignin-based hydrogels: a review

 Comparative analysis of modeling approaches.

Modeling approachStrengthsLimitationsApplications
Conventional modelsSimple, widely validated, and effective for initial screening.Limited ability to capture complex or non-linear release kinetics.Lipid-based nanoparticles, polymeric systems, and empirical studies.
Machine learning [e.g., decision tree regression (DTR)]High predictive accuracy and ability to handle complex datasets.Requires large datasets, potential overfitting.Advanced drug delivery systems, data-rich environments.
Mechanistic modelsCaptures underlying physical and chemical processes, high precision.Complex to develop, it requires detailed system-specific knowledge.Implantable systems, long-term release platforms.
Hyperbolic tangent functionRobust for non-linear and complex release kinetics.Less commonly used, requires validation for new systems.Polymeric nanoparticles, systems with multi-phase release profiles.