Gel diffusion-inspired biomimetic calcium iodate/gelatin composite particles: Structural characterization and antibacterial activity

Calcium iodate is an inorganic source of calcium and iodate ions which has not yet been widely considered by researchers. In this paper, we used a straightforward, cost-effective, and robust study for synthesis of calcium iodate/gelatin hybrid composite particles at ambient temperature. We conducted single diffusion procedure of calcium ions in gelatin hydrogel at pH = 5, 7 and 9 for three weeks. Feather-like calcium iodate/gelatin composite particles were later observed, and we characterized them using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, optical microscopy, X-ray diffraction, thermal gravimetric analysis, reflectance spectroscopy and bacteriological culture plate. Spectroscopy methods confirmed successful synthesis of calcium iodate/gelatin composite particles. Microscopic observations showed formation of two primary composite morphologies including plate-shaped and feather-like particles. Our research proved that gelatin hydrogel is not only able to change the morphology and thermal properties of calcium iodate, but it also lowers the reflectance values of final composite particles toward the visible region. Interestingly, we found antibacterial properties in particles which is promising for tissue engineering applications.