Silver Nanoparticle-Modified PVA/BС Hydrogels: A Path toward Stable and Functional Biomaterials

Abstract

This study examines the physicochemical properties of a hydrogel composed of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and bacterial cellulose (BC), modified with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) previously synthesised via green methods using Lactobacillus acidophilus UCM B-2691. The effects of composition on moisture content, sorption behavior, and moisture desorption were assessed, and the density of the obtained samples was investigated. Increasing the bacterial cellulose content in hydrogels enhances their hydrophilicity, water-holding capacity, and sorption properties. The incorporated AgNPs are not released from the hydrogels and do not exhibit antimicrobial activity; instead, they promote the formation of a more porous, structurally stable network, which enhances sorption and lowers density. PVA/BC hydrogels containing 40–60% BC and AgNPs showed the best overall performance, combining high hydrophilicity, structural stability, and porosity. The results indicate the high potential of these hydrogel systems for biomedical technologies, particularly in controlled drug delivery and tissue engineering.