Gamma‐Irradiated <scp>PVP</scp>‐<scp>PVAL</scp> Clay‐Hydrogels: Evaluations of Mechanical and Antibacterial Properties With Different Clay Concentrations

ABSTRACT The pursuit of biomaterials and medicines dosed at therapeutic levels has become increasingly intensive over time. There is a growing need for materials that respond more efficiently to the demands of daily use. Hydrogels have the potential to meet this demand due to the specific characteristics of their reagents and synthesis methods. This article investigates the influence of Laponite RD (Lap), a clay material, as a crosslinking mediator in the gamma radiation synthesis of PVP/PVAL hydrogels. The central question addressed is how Lap, which possesses dual properties as both a drug carrier and a crosslinking mediator, can enhance both functionalities without antagonistic effects. The data presented in this study demonstrate the interaction between polymers and clay, as confirmed by FTIR, XRD, and TG/DSC analyses. Swelling and gel fraction tests revealed that the polymer network is also altered by the presence of Lap. Mechanical resistance tests indicated that the Young's modulus varies with increasing Laponite concentration, in addition to enhancing the elasticity of the hydrogel. However, despite these findings, all analytical techniques suggest that there may be a limit to the polymer–clay interaction. Furthermore, the hydrogels did not exhibit an inhibition halo against E. coli bacteria, but positive optical density results indicated bacterial inhibition. Additionally, this research contributes to the future development of a matrix suitable for clay‐drug systems, in hydrogel form, for drug delivery systems in pharmaceutical applications.