Enhancing Thin Film Properties of Chitosan–Collagen Biocomposites Through Potassium Silicate and Tannic Acid Integration

Abstract

Chitosan and collagen are natural polymers widely used in biomaterials science; however, their inherent low stability and solubility present several challenges to obtain formulations suitable for potential clinical applications. In this study, tannic acid (TA) was employed as a cross-linker to improve the properties of thin films made from chitosan and collagen. In addition, potassium silicate (PS) was added as an inorganic filler, to produce innovative biocomposite films. The impact of TA and PS on physicochemical (i.e., material homogeneity, surface free energy, degradation, and stability roughness of surface), antioxidant, hemocompatibility, as well as cellular responses was evaluated. The results demonstrated that the incorporation of TA significantly enhanced the physicochemical properties of the chitosan/collagen-based films. The addition of 5% PS resulted in an increase in surface free energy and a decrease in roughness parameters. Furthermore, both surface free energy and cellular responses improved with the increased TA concentration in the biocomposite firms. Meanwhile, the hemolysis rate remained below 5%, indicating the potential suitability of these materials for medical applications, such as coatings or scaffolds for bone or skin wound healing.