Preparation of Bio‐Inspired <scp>MgO</scp> ‐Embedded <scp>PVA</scp> ‐Gellan Gum Nanocomposite Films and Evaluation of In Vitro Cytocompatibility, Antioxidant, and Antibacterial Properties

ABSTRACT A high performance polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)—gelrite gellan gum (GGG) composite film has been fabricated by incorporating green synthesized magnesium oxide (MgO) nanoparticles (MgO NPs). Strong intermolecular interactions between PVA, GGG, and MgO were identified using fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), as evidenced by shifts in the –OH absorption bands. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed the crystalline nature of MgO NPs, while the elemental composition and chemical states of MgO within the film matrix were validated using X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Thermogravimetric analysis showed improved thermal stability. Mechanical testing indicated enhanced tensile strength (5.31–25.6 MPa) and elongation due to nanoparticle reinforcement. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) displayed uniform dispersion of MgO. The result of antioxidant potential assessed via DPPH assay, and antibacterial test performed using E. coli and S. aureus, supported the films' biomedical relevance. The findings show that the addition of MgO NPs enhances the structural, thermal, and functional performance of the nanocomposite films, making them appropriate for their possible use in biomedical and packaging areas.