Characterization of PVA/glycerin hydrogels using gamma-irradiation for advanced wound dressings

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the enhanced absorption property of PVA/Glycerin (PVA/Gly) hydrogel for advanced wound dressing. A simple crosslinking method was introduced to prepare the PVA/Gly hydrogels with the use of gamma-irradiation. An absorption ratio and thermal properties of the PVA/Gly hydrogels can be controlled by varying the irradiation dose and weight ratio of the PVA/Gly. When the PVA/Gly content was 20/5 wt% and the irradiation dose at 25 kGy, the PVA/Gly hydrogels showed excellent absorption properties (>350%). These results imply that the PVA/Gly hydrogel is highly absorbent and converts wound exudates to the hydrogel matrices that create a moist and clean environment in the wound healing process. Therefore, the PVA/Gly hydrogel prepared by this method can be used as an advanced wound dressing.