In vitro cell proliferation, adhesion studies, and enhancement of mechanical properties of organo solve-lignin functionalized halloysite clay nanotube fillers doped onto poly (vinyl alcohol) film

Abstract

Novel surface-functionalized Lignin-rough.HNTs with favourable properties were synthesised using lignin (Lig.) and halloysite nanotubes (HNTs). The produced Lig-rHNTs reinforced onto Poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA) matrix. Spectroscopic and morphological investigations showed surface functionalization of HNTs with lignin via hydrogen bonding. The lignin functionalized rough-HNTs (Lig-rHNTs) were investigated using FTIR, AFM, SEM, X-ray diffraction, thermal, mechanical, water contact angle (WCA), and swelling ratio analysis. WCA was used to measure film hydrophilicity and compared to swelling tests. Morphological investigations showed that increasing the amount of Lig-rHNTs in the films increased surface roughness. Mechanical and thermal qualities increased compared to pure PVA film. Nanocomposite films outperform pristine PVA films in proliferative and adhesion capacity and enzymatic breakdown. Furthermore, human erythrocyte testing showed that nanocomposite films are hemocompatible, indicating more excellent tissue engineering and wound healing potential.