Gamma rays applied in the synthesis of a biocompatible (silicone-graft-PHEMA)-graft-PNVI film loaded with a Randia extract

This article proposes a silicone graft copolymer loaded with Randia fruit extract as a potential material for wound healing. The methodology involves a two-step radiation-mediated process: first, grafting 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) onto silicone rubber, followed by grafting N -vinylimidazole (NVI) in the second step. The resulting graft copolymer, silicone-g-(PHEMA)-g-PNVI, exhibited enhanced hydrophilicity and increased surface energy, enabling the incorporation of a natural extract onto its surface. An aqueous/ethanolic Randia fruit extract was prepared and loaded onto the polymer system to create the final material, (silicone-g-PHEMA)-g-PNVI@Ran. This study aims to develop a novel wound dressing that combines the mechanical properties of silicone with the therapeutic benefits of Randia extract, offering a biocompatible and effective solution for epithelial wound healing. • Gamma radiation as energy source to modify the surface of a silicone rubber. • N-vinylimidazole (NVI) and 3-hydroxyethylmethacrylate (HEMA) forming a graft copolymer with silicone rubber. • Construction of a silicone material grafted with vinyl polymers to load the natural Randia extract. • Polymer/natural hybrid composite material for biomedical devices.