Thermal and rheological characterization of mixed inorganic/organic natural hydrogels to be used in physical medical treatments

Abstract Improving the thermal and rheological limitations of traditional natural hydrogels remains a key challenge for their medical use. Inorganic and organic elements were combined synergistically to develop natural hydrogels, and subsequently subjected to comprehensive thermal and rheological analysis for potential applications in physical medical treatments. The primary objective of this study was to optimize the technological, biopharmaceutical, and therapeutic properties of these innovative hydrogels, constituted by an inorganic framework of clay particles entrapping organic components from peat extracts. The hydrogels underwent thorough mineralogical and chemical characterization, confirming the pharmaceutical-grade quality of the clay component, which was predominantly composed of montmorillonite and saponite. Rheological evaluations revealed non-Newtonian viscoplastic behavior, with viscosity and thixotropy increasing significantly with higher clay concentrations and prolonged swelling durations. Thermal analyses demonstrated that the hydrogels possess adequate heat-transfer capabilities, ensuring effective maintenance of skin temperature during therapeutic application. Elemental analysis and cation exchange capacity determinations highlighted the substantial water retention and ion exchange properties of the hydrogels, contributing to their stability and functional performance. The integration of organic and inorganic constituents enhanced synergistically the mechanical strength, thermal stability, and therapeutic efficacy of the hydrogels. These advancements position the formulated hydrogels as promising candidates for innovative applications in physical medical treatments, offering enhanced mechanical and thermal properties essential for effective therapeutic outcomes.