Zn2+-loaded TOBC nanofiber-reinforced biomimetic calcium alginate hydrogel for antibacterial wound dressing

Calcium alginate hydrogel dressing is an excellent hydrogel dressing because of its excellent absorption characteristics and tear-free pain. However, its application is limited by its poor mechanical properties and non-bacterial properties. Here, we reported a new biomimetic hydrogel dressing with good mechanical properties and antibacterial properties by 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine-1-oxyl oxidized bacterial cellulose (TOBC) intensified and a simple method for loading Zn2+. The results indicated that the mechanical properties were obviously improved by adding 20 wt% TOBC due to the formation of conjoined-network structure. When the concentration of Zn2+ is controlled at about 0.0001 wt%, the hydrogel has good antimicrobial and biological properties. This study provides a simple and sufficient method to prepare new biomimetic antimicrobial hydrogel dressings with good properties.