Synthesis of poly(vinyl alcohol) - methyl cellulose hydrogel as possible scaffolds in tissue engineering

Hydrogels have enormous potential in medical and pharmaceutical applications. Due to their biocompatibility, hydrogels have emerged as a promising option in drug delivery and tissue engineering. In this study, poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and methyl cellulose (MC) interpenetrated network type hydrogels were prepared by simultaneous crosslinking, using epichlorohydrin (EPCI) as crosslinking agent. The structure of the new material was confirmed by IR spectroscopy. Swelling characteristics (maximum swelling degree, swelling rate constant) were determined, in correlation with reaction parameters and network density. A study of drug (Cefoperazone Sodium - CS) release and mechanical tests were also performed.