In this study, a bioactive hydrogel-coated textile dressing was developed for potential application in pressure ulcer management. The hydrogel matrix was formed via Schiff base crosslinking between O-carboxymethyl chitosan (O-CMC) and oxidised sodi-um alginate (Ox-NaAlg). O-CMC was synthesised through controlled carboxymethylation of chitosan, while Ox-NaAlg was prepared by periodate oxidation to introduce reactive aldehyde groups. Plant-derived extracts of Hypericum perforatum and Mat-ricaria chamomilla were incorporated into the hydrogel system, either directly or as reducing agents for the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). The resulting hydrogels were coated onto nonwoven cotton fabrics prior to complete gelation. Structural and physicochemical characterisation was performed using FTIR spectroscopy, UV–Vis spectroscopy, TEM, SEM, swelling studies, gelation time measurements, protein adsorption, and antioxidant activity assays. The results demonstrate suc-cessful hydrogel formation, stable incorporation of bioactive components, and tunable physicochemical properties depending on formulation composition. The developed hydrogel-coated fabrics exhibited characteristics suitable for wound dressing applica-tions, including high water uptake, controlled protein interaction, and antioxidant potential. These findings indicate that the pro-posed system represents a promising platform for advanced wound care, warranting further biological validation. |
