Flexible self-healing nanocomposite based gelatin/tannic acid/acrylic acid reinforced with zinc oxide nanoparticles and hollow silver nanoparticles based on porous silica for rapid wound healing

In this research, gelatin (Ge), tannic acid (TA), acrylic acid (AA) as a matrix are used. Zinc oxide (ZnO) nano-particles (10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 wt%) and hollow silver nanoparticles along with ascorbic acid (1, 3, and 5 wt%) are considered as reinforcement. In order to prove the functional groups of nanoparticles made from Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and determine the existing phases of the powders in the hydrogel, X-ray diffraction (XRD) is used, also to investigate the morphology, size, and porosity of the holes and in the scaffolds, scanning electron microscope analysis is used (FESEM). Then, mechanical tests such as tension and compression test are performed to determine the most optimal state of the composite. Also, the antibacterial test is performed for the manufactured powders and hydrogel, as well as the toxicity test for the fabricated hydrogel. The results show that the sample (30 wt% of zinc oxide and 5 wt% of hollow nanoparticles) is the most optimal hydrogel based on mechanical tests and biological properties.

Automated summary

Gelatin, tannic acid, and acrylic acid are used as a matrix in the research. Zinc oxide nanoparticles and hollow silver nanoparticles with ascorbic acid are considered as reinforcement. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) are used to analyze the functional groups and phases of the nanoparticles, while scanning electron microscope analysis (FESEM) is used to investigate the morphology and porosity. Mechanical tests and antibacterial/toxicity tests are performed to determine the optimal state of the composite. The results show that the sample with 30 wt% of zinc oxide and 5 wt% of hollow nanoparticles exhibits the best mechanical and biological properties.