Release of Bioactive Molecules from Graphene Oxide-Alginate Hybrid Hydrogels: Effect of Crosslinking Method

To investigate the influence of crosslinking methods on releasing performance hybrid hydrogels, we synthesized two systems consisting Graphene oxide (GO) as a functional element and alginate polymer counterpart by means ionic gelation (physical method, HA−GOP) radical polymerization (chemical HA−GOC). Formulations were optimized to maximize GO content (2.0 1.15% for HA−GOP HA−GOC, respectively) Curcumin (CUR) was loaded model drug at 2.5, 5.0, 7.5% (by weight). The physico-chemical characterization confirmed homogeneous incorporation within network enhanced thermal stability vs. blank hydrogels. determination swelling profiles showed higher degree HA−GOC marked pH responsivity due COOH functionalities. Moreover, application external voltages modified water affinity while they accelerated degradation disruption points partial dissolution alginate. evaluation release profiles, extensively analysed semi-empirical mathematical models, sustained from possibility modulate amount rate electro-stimulation HA−GOC.