Evaluation of biocomposite films containing alginate and sago starch impregnated with silver nano particles

In recent years, the metal nanoparticles/polymer composites have created lot of attraction due to their wide range of applications. In the present study, the composite films of alginate (AL) and sago starch (SG) impregnated with silver nano particles (AgNP) with and without antibiotic gentamicin (G) were prepared by solvent casting method. The films prepared were characterized for thermo gravimetric analysis, SEM, TEM and mechanical properties and the results have shown the composite nature of the films. AL-SG-AgNP and AL-SG-AgNP-G composites were used as wound dressing materials in experimental wounds of rats. The healing pattern of the wounds was evaluated by planimetric studies, macroscopic observations, biochemical studies and histopathological observations. The results have shown faster healing pattern in the wounds treated with AL-SG-AgNP and AL-SG-AgNP-G composites compared to untreated control. This study revealed that AL-SG-AgNP film might be a potential and economical wound dressing material. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.