Antimicrobial hydrogels based on 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate and itaconic acid containing silver(I) ion

Abstract

The objective of our study was to develop new antimicrobial hydrogels silver/poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate/ itaconic acid) (Ag/P(HEMA/IA)). The P(HEMA/IA) samples, with different HEMA/IA ratio, were prepared by free radical crosslinking copolymerization. Ag ion were introduced in hydrogels by immersing dried P(HEMA/IA) disks in silver(I) salt solution, which was confirmed by FTIR spectroscopy. The in vitro controlled release of silver(I) ion from (Ag/P(HEMA/IA)) gels, and antimicrobial activity during the release period were also studied. The release profiles have shown a two-phase exponential profile, with fast initial phase, followed by a much slower release rate. Kinetic parameters determined, have indicated Fickian transport of Ag(I) ion in the initial phase. It is perceived that the antimicrobial activity of the Ag/P(HEMA/IA) depends on IA content. Excellent antimicrobial potential was maintained during the entire release time.