Gelatin-PVP Hydrogels with Potential Skin Grafts Applications

Abstract

This work presents the synthesis and characterization of natural-synthetic hydrogels based on gelatin (Gel) and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), with potential for skin grafts applications. The natural component, Gel insures the biocompatibility and biodegradability of the bicomponent system [1], while the synthetic counterpart, PVP, is a physiologic inert component, extensively used in medicine due to its water affinity and due to its capacity of confer elasticity to films and membranes with potential applications in skin grafts [2]. The obtained hydrogels were subjected to morpho-structural analysis and rheological and mechanical tests (traction). The water affinity of the systems was estimated and their capacity to generate porous substrates through freeze-drying was evaluated.