Development and Investigation of the Synergistic Properties of Latex ( <scp> <i>Hevea brasiliensis</i> </scp> )/Poly (Vinyl Alcohol) as a Potential Dermal Dressing

ABSTRACT Research on dermal dressings has become increasingly important due to the need for affordable, effective, and accessible alternatives to costly and invasive conventional treatments, with materials such as Latex from Hevea brasiliensis and Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) standing out for their biocompatibility, elasticity, ease of processing, angiogenic potential, and low production cost. This study compared four latex/PVA membrane ratios: 50%/50%, 75%/25%, 80%/20%, and 90%/10%. Several techniques, including Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), swelling and tensile tests, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), zeta potential measurements, and in vitro biological assays, were employed. Results showed that membranes with 75%/25% and 80%/20% ratios exhibited superior physicochemical properties. The presence of PVA increased the swelling rate of the membranes, while the zeta potential analysis indicated that latex enhances the negative surface charges. Mechanically, the latex/PVA blend significantly influenced the samples' behavior: the 50%/50% and 75%/25% compositions reduced the latex elastomeric capacity, whereas the 80%/20% and 90%/10% compositions exhibited a more amorphous behavior, similar to that of pure latex. SEM analysis revealed homogeneity, porosity, and surface roughness in these compositions. In vitro biological assays indicated enhanced cell adhesion and proliferation, suggesting a promising synergy of these polymers for dermal dressings.