Innovative Antibacterial Magneto-Conductive Multifunctional Hydrogel From Biocompatible Materials

This work aims to develop a new conductive hydrogel using sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (Na + CMC), acrylic acid (AAc), and N , N -dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate (DMAEMA), with antibacterial properties. The hydrogel was prepared through free radical polymerization, with the adjustment of Na + CMC concentration to enhance its mechanical and functional properties. Iron(III) chloride hexahydrate (FeCl 3 ·6H 2 O) was integrated into the hydrogel to introduce magnetic functionality. Evaluation of the hydrogel's characteristics reveals successful cross-linking of the components as confirmed by FTIR analysis, while SEM images displayed consistent pore size and porosity. TGA indicated thermal stability in three degradation phases. XRD and SEM revealed a polycrytalline structure within a heterogeneous matrix having a rough, porous surface texture highly advantageous for improved fluid transportation and cellular movement. Electrical conductivity was measured using a four-probe tester, revealing that the hydrogel with 1.5% Na + CMC had the highest conductivity at 16 s/cm. In comparison, hydrogels with 1.0% and 0.5% Na + CMC showed conductivities of 10 and 6 s/cm, respectively. The hydrogel also exhibited good antibacterial effects against Staphylococcus aureus , methicillin-resistant S. aureus , and Escherichia coli . This versatile hydrogel has potential applications in medical and environmental fields.