Radiation synthesis of PVP/alginate hydrogel containing nanosilver as wound dressing.

Hydrogels with polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) and alginate were synthesized and silver nanoparticles were incorporated in hydrogel network using gamma radiation. PVP (10 and 15 %) in combination with 0.5 and 1 % alginate was gamma irradiated at different doses of 25 and 40 kGy. Maximum gel percent was obtained with 15 % PVP in combination with 0.5 % alginate. The fluid absorption capacity for the PVP/alginate hydrogels was about 1881-2361 % at 24 h. Moisture vapour transmission rate (MVTR) of hydrogels containing nanosilver at 24 h was 278.44 g/(m(2)h). The absorption capacity and moisture permeability of the PVP/alginate-nanosilver composite hydrogel dressings show the ability of the hydrogels to prevent fluid accumulation in exudating wound. The hydrogels containing nanosilver demonstrated strong antimicrobial effect and complete inhibition of microbial growth was observed with 70 ppm nanosilver dressings. PVP/alginate hydrogels containing nanosilver with efficient fluid handling capacity and antimicrobial activity was found suitable for use as wound dressing.