Preparation and Characterization of Keratin-Based Biocomposite Hydrogels Prepared by Electron Beam Irradiation

    September 2013 in “ Materials Science and Engineering C ”
    Mira Park, Byoung‐Suhk Kim, Hye Kyoung Shin, Soo‐Jin Park, Hak Yong Kim
    TLDR Keratin-based hydrogels from human hair and wool are promising for wound dressings and are more eco-friendly.
    The study developed biocompatible keratin-based hydrogels using keratin from human hair and wool, combined with poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) through electron beam irradiation (EBI). The research aimed to create environmentally friendly hydrogels by utilizing natural polymer wastes. The presence of poly(ethylene imine) (PEI) significantly reduced the EBI dose needed for gelation, acting as an accelerator. Optimal concentrations for S-sulfo keratin and PVA were both 5.0 wt.%. The hydrogels, especially those from human hair, showed superior swelling properties due to their fibrous and porous structures, making them suitable for wound dressings and cell scaffolding. The study highlighted the potential of these hydrogels to be more environmentally friendly than traditional PVA hydrogels.
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