Fabricating of poly(vinyl alcohol)/halloysite nanotubes/gelatin composite sponges with enhanced mechanical properties and rapid water absorption speed

Abstract

In the biomedical field, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) sponge has been widely used. In particular, it is considered a potential implant material for repairing soft tissues. However, its insufficient water absorption and mechanical properties limit its application. In this work, a novel PVA/halloysite nanotubes (HNTs)/gelatin ternary composite sponge was prepared by water solution mixing and casting techniques. HNTs and gelatin/PVA solution were mixed at different weight ratios. The structure of the ternary composite sponges was characterized by using scanning electron microscopy. The physical properties of the ternary composite sponges were characterized. The maximum water absorption reached 1783.5% with a rapid water absorption speed at a weight ratio of HNTs/gelatin of 1:8. Owing to its interconnected macroporous structure and good interfacial interaction, its highest compression strength and tensile strength reached 8.22, 1.51 MPa, respectively. In addition, its thermal stability was enhanced as well, which demonstrated that the prepared composite sponge had better performance than the pure PVA sponge by constructing a ternary system. Therefore, the results suggest that the PVA/HNTs/gelatin ternary composite sponge shows a wider application value as a potential material for repairing soft tissue.Highlights A composite PVA sponge with promising applications in tissue engineering. Simple preparation method, water solution mixing and casting techniques. Pioneering a PVA/HNTs/gelatin ternary system sponge. Improved water absorption ability and mechanical properties.