Synthesis and Characterization of Composite Hydrogels for Tissue Engineering: An Investigation on Mechanical Properties and Biocompatibility

Author

Ismael Lamas Jr., The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

Date of Award

5-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Engineering (MSE)

Department

Biomedical Engineering

First Advisor

Mohammad R. Islam

Second Advisor

Claudia C. Biguetti

Third Advisor

Dumitru I. Caruntu

Abstract

This study investigates the fabrication and characterization of Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA)/agar double-network (DN) hydrogels for biomedical applications, focusing on mechanical strength, biocompatibility, and tissue engineering potential. Techniques like swelling ratio analysis and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), alongside antibacterial and cytotoxicity assays, were employed to evaluate the hydrogels' properties. Results show that increasing agar content enhances mechanical and physical properties, with swelling ratios increasing by 300% when agar makes up 6% of the hydrogel, compared to 140% without agar. A positive correlation was observed between agar concentration and compressive and tensile moduli. Load-relaxation rates, essential for viscoelastic properties, also improved with higher agar content. Antibacterial tests confirmed the effectiveness of Zinc Oxide (ZnO) for drug release, while limitations were present for cell viability testing, MTS assay results showed some success 48 hours. This research lays the foundation for advancing artificial organs, cancer therapies, and regenerative medicine by optimizing these hydrogels.

Comments

Copyright 2025 Ismael Lamas Jr. https://proquest.com/docview/3240704174

Recommended Citation

Lamas Jr., I. (2025). Synthesis and Characterization of Composite Hydrogels for Tissue Engineering: An Investigation on Mechanical Properties and Biocompatibility [Master's thesis, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley]. ScholarWorks @ UTRGV. https://scholarworks.utrgv.edu/etd/1700