Synthesis, rheological characterization, and antibacterial activity of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/ zinc oxide nanoparticles wound dressing, achieved under electron beam irradiation

An antibacterial wound dressing hydrogel was synthesized from biopolymers and a semiconductor nanomaterial by gamma irradiation, and applied in a simulated environment. Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/agar hydrogel was chosen due to its biocompatibility and good swelling to absorb wound exudates and make a moist environment to accelerate the wound healing process. Zinc oxide nanoparticles were synthesized and combined with the hydrogel due to their...