Composite hydrogels based on polyacrylamide and cellulose: Synthesis and functional properties

Biocompatible composite hydrogels based on polyacrylamide and reinforced with bacterial or vegetable cellulose were synthesized. In the mechanical characteristics and water content, these hydrogels are similar to knee joint cartilages with average rigidity level. The structure and chemical composition of the hydrogels after their residence for 45 days in laboratory animal joints were studied by scanning electron microscopy and energydispersive X-ray microanalysis. Prolonged contact of the hydrogels with bones results in formation of calcium phosphate spherulites similar in composition to hydroxyapatite.