Pva-Based Hydrogels: Structure and Analysis for Controlled Release

Abstract

Hydrogels are versatile materials widely explored in biomedical and pharmaceutical applications. To enhance their potential, we developed poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)-based hydrogels combined with polysaccharides as, for example, chitosan (CHI), poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG), and poly(lactic acid) (PLA), and characterized them for aiming controlled release applications. Infrared spectra confirmed the presence of polysaccharides into hydrogel matrix, which has a significant impact on the swelling degree of blend hydrogels. Viscosity assays gave insights into polymer solution flow properties, and thermogravimetric tests showed different polymers can tailor PVA thermal stability. Texture profile analysis revealed that swelling behavior influenced the hydrogels mechanical properties. SEM images confirmed surface and internal changes due to polymer addition. These findings suggest that PVA-based hydrogels, modified with specific polymers, offer promising potential for controlled release.

Keywords: Poly(vinyl alcohol), Biodegradability, Biomedical applications