The Synthesis of a Controlled Release System Based on MMT Added IPN Type Hydrogels

Abstract

The purpose of our study is to develop a controlled Naproxen releasing system for anti-inflammatory, analgesic treatments. Interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) type of hydrogels were obtained by using natural polymers alginate and gelatin. The hydrogels were prepared by combining Alginate and Gelatin in the presence of Glutaraldehyde as crosslinker of gelatin. Montmorillonite (MMT) clay was used as a nano-dimensioned and layered dopant. The prepared hydrogels were characterized via hydrogel formation, swelling/degradation measurements, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis. Swelling tests presented that the presence of MMT in the polymer network decreases the swelling. From the SEM micrographs, it can be seen that MMT added hydrogel has smaller and more pore than the other. The release studies of Naproxen were maintained in Britton-Robinson Buffer (BRB) solution (pH=7.4) and at 37°C. It is observed that the swelling profiles of the hydrogels were compatible with the releasing behaviors. The release kinetics of Naproxen are match the Fickian diffusion.