Characterization of Polyvinyl Alcohol/Pectin Hydrogel Incorporated with Hydroxyapatite Bone Scaffold Applications

Abstract

Various biomaterials have been explored as a result of the growing demand for efficient bone regeneration techniques, driven by the increasing prevalence of bone fractures. Pectin is a natural biomaterial with polysaccharide structure that have capability enhances biocompatibility and promotes cell adhesion and proliferation. Additionally, hydroxyapatite, a naturally occurring mineral in bone, was included to provide osteoconductive properties and improve the mechanical strength of the hydrogel scaffold. This study aims to develop and characterize a new hydrogel composed of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), pectin, and hydroxyapatite (HA) for bone regeneration applications. Gelation was initiated using calcium chloride and glutaraldehyde to facilitate in situ crosslinking. Experimental evaluations included injectability, gelation time, surface morphology (SEM analysis), elemental composition (EDX analysis) and chemical structure (FTIR analysis), The gelation times were recorded as 1 hour for the control (PVA/pectin), 1.5 hours for PVA/pectin/5% HA, and 2 hours for PVA/pectin/10% HA. SEM analysis revealed an interconnected porous structure essential for cell infiltration and nutrient diffusion. FTIR and EDX analyses confirmed the successful incorporation of HA into the hydrogel matrix. Among the formulations, the 5% HA hydrogel exhibited the most balanced characteristics in terms of gelation time, and structural properties. These findings contribute to the advancement of hybrid hydrogel scaffolds, providing insights into innovative solutions for bone defect treatments in clinical applications.