PVA–CS polymeric system conjugated with GO–ZnO–Ag2O ternary composite – a multifunctional nanocomposite for wound healing applications

Abstract

The current study focuses on the development of an antibacterial, conducting and biocompatible nanocomposite for wound healing applications comprising of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), chitosan (CS), graphene oxide (GO), and zinc oxide–silver oxide composite (ZnO–Ag₂O) through the solution casting method. The XRD, FTIR, Raman as well as the FESEM–EDAX results confirmed the presence of the ternary nanocomposite at different concentrations (5–15 wt%) in the polymer system. Additionally, variations in the surface roughness of the polymer composites were documented through the AFM images. The highest ionic conductivity value of 0.345 × 10⁻⁴ S cm⁻¹ was reported for PVA–CS–GO–ZnO–Ag₂O (5 wt%). The nanoparticles as well as polymeric nanocomposites showcased superior antibacterial activity against both E. coli and S. aureus. Furthermore, the prepared polymeric composites exhibited excellent cytocompatibility towards RBCs as well as RAW 264.7 cells. Hence, the developed polymeric composite exhibiting outstanding antibacterial efficacy, improved ionic conductivity, and excellent biocompatibility holds promise as an innovative candidate for the formulation of advanced wound dressings.