Work

Tailored hydrogel properties through blending homopolymer celluloses: A novel approach for sustainable biomaterials

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The growing reliance on synthetic polymers for hydrogel production underscores the urgent need to explore natural polymers, particularly cellulose. However, molecular weight (MW) of cellulose, depending on its source significantly affects the hydrogel’s physicochemical properties. Here, we report a simple yet compelling strategy to fine-tune the physicochemical properties of the hydrogel by blending cellulose of varying MWs. High and low MW celluloses were extracted from pineapple leaf fiber (PALF) and Orthosiphon aristatus stem fiber (OASF) through chemical pre-treatments, then blended in varying ratios, dissolved in N, N -dimethylacetamide/lithium chloride, and regenerated in an ethanol-vapor environment to form PALF/OASF hydrogels. Blending high-MW PALF with low-MW OASF cellulose produced hydrogels with distinct physicochemical properties. Pure PALF (PALF100-OASF0) exhibited the highest viscosity (303 cP), gel fraction (33.26 %), crystallinity (52.6 %), Young's modulus (1.12 MPa), and cohesiveness (2.2 g·s), indicating strong polymer interactions and chain entanglement. In contrast, pure low-MW OASF (PALF0-OASF100) showed the lowest values. Blending high-MW PALF with low-MW OASF reduced these properties while increasing the equilibrium swelling ratio and mesh size, enhancing hydrogel flexibility for biomaterial applications. The antibacterial property of hydrogel is improved by loading tannic acid and exhibited antibacterial activity against E. coli . This study highlights the transformative potential of valorizing agricultural waste into cellulose-blend hydrogels, promoting a circular economy. By integrating sustainability into material science, these bio-based hydrogels offer a promising pathway for future innovations in waste management and advanced biomaterials, paving the way for eco-conscious solutions in various industries. • Natural cellulose offers an alternative to synthetic polymers in hydrogel. • Cellulose molecular weight varies with its source, affecting the hydrogel’s properties. • Tuning of naturally fixed cellulose molecular weight can be achieved by homopolymer blending. • The hydrogel has potential as biomaterial for skin patch and contact lenses. • This study promotes sustainability and drives waste management innovation.

Source: Industrial Crops and Products

DOI: 10.1016/j.indcrop.2025.121054

Authors: Chang Koon Wong, Nadia Adrus, Nur Aina Farhana Mat Nasir, Jamarosliza Jamaluddin, Rosnani Hasham, Siti Pauliena Mohd Bohari

Institution: University of Technology Malaysia

Language: English

Topic: Advanced Cellulose Research Studies

Subfield: Biomaterials

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,720