Physical properties, antimicrobial activity, and molecular docking studies of grafting carboxymethyl cellulose hydrogels using 4-(2-chloroethyl) morpholine hydrochloride

This study investigates the synthesis and characterization of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) hydrogels grafted with 4-(2-chloroethyl) morpholine hydrochloride (CEMHD), focusing on their physical properties, antimicrobial activity, and molecular docking studies. The hydrogels were developed using citric acid as a crosslinking agent, and their properties were evaluated at varying concentrations of CEMHD (1%, 5%, 10%, and 15%). The results revealed that increasing the concentration of CEMHD significantly improved the thermal stability and surface morphology of the hydrogels, as shown by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The antimicrobial activity was enhanced with higher CEMHD concentrations. This research provides a novel approach to the development of functional hydrogels, advancing the scope of biocompatible and antimicrobial materials for medical and industrial use.