Silver Nanoparticle‐Infused Poly(Vinyl Alcohol) Hydrogel for Antimicrobial Wound Dressing Material: An In Situ Green Synthesis Approach

ABSTRACT Quick absorption of wound exudate and avoidance of wound infection are critical for creating an aseptic environment conducive to healing. A synthesis of improved wound dressings with increased antibacterial characteristics has received substantial attention in recent years. This work describes in situ green synthesis of silver nanoparticles and characterization of its nanocomposite encapsulated within a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) matrix. Assessment of Ag nanoparticles‐PVA matrix bio‐composite exhibited strong potential for wound dressings due to its strong antibacterial properties. Instrumental analyses, including dynamic light scattering (DLS) and zeta potential measurements, demonstrated that the silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) possess monodisperse distribution with a narrow size range, averaging around 28 nm (hydrodynamic size). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging confirmed the homogeneous incorporation of AgNPs throughout the PVA matrix, with the particles exhibiting a consistent average diameter of 20 nm. XRD, FT‐IR, and antimicrobial assays were utilized for analyzing the structural, morphological, and antimicrobial characteristics of the synthesized bio‐composites. The improved properties of the AgNPs‐PVA matrix bio‐composites are due to its enhanced antibacterial capabilities, which successfully eradicate harmful germs from the wound site and provide a moist, aseptic environment that promotes re‐epithelialization.