Carboxymethyl Cellulose/Polyvinyl Alcohol/Zinc Oxide Nanocomposite Hydrogel Films for Advanced Wound Dressings
摘要
This study reports the development of transparent, flexible, and biodegradable carboxymethyl cellulose/polyvinyl alcohol/zinc oxide (CMC/PVA/ZnONP) nanocomposite hydrogel films incorporating honey-mediated green-synthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles. Honey-mediated zinc oxide nanoparticles exhibited a crystalline wurtzite structure with well-defined nanoscale morphology and surface functionalization, as confirmed by ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, electron microscopy, and zeta potential analysis, indicating their stability and suitability for bioactive applications. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and energy-dispersive X-ray analysis with elemental mapping collectively confirmed the successful incorporation of zinc oxide nanoparticles within the polymer matrix, revealing strong interfacial interactions, surface chemical states, and a uniform spatial distribution of zinc throughout the hydrogel films. The incorporation of ZnO significantly improved the barrier properties of the films by reducing moisture content, film solubility, and oxygen permeability, while enhancing mechanical stability The nanocomposite films exhibited strong antibacterial activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, achieving > 99% reduction in bacterial viability. Multifunctional bioactivity was demonstrated through pronounced antioxidant activity (DPPH scavenging > 70%), along with notable antidiabetic and anti-inflammatory effects. Cytocompatibility studies using human dermal fibroblasts showed high cell viability (> 95%) across all tested concentrations. Importantly, zinc ion migration under simulated physiological and wound conditions remained within safe limits (< 1.2 mg/L over 72 h), ensuring sustained bioactivity without cytotoxic risk. Soil burial studies indicated progressive biodegradation, with ~ 60% mass loss within 28 days. Overall, this work introduces a green, multifunctional, and biologically safe nanocomposite hydrogel system that integrates sustainable nanoparticle synthesis with controlled ion release and wound-relevant bioactivity, offering a promising platform for next-generation wound dressings and antimicrobial packaging applications.