Synthesis, characterization, and in vitro studies of graphene oxide/chitosan–polyvinyl alcohol films

Nanocomposites based on chitosan–polyvinyl alcohol (CS–PVA) and graphene oxide (GO) were prepared by casting the stable aqueous mixture of the components. SEM, TEM and X-ray diffraction showed that graphene oxide is largely dispersed on molecular scale within CS–PVA matrix. FTIR investigation indicated the occurrence of some interaction between graphene oxide nanosheets and CS–PVA. The obtained composites are mechanically strong and exhibit improved thermal stability. By addition of 6 wt.% GO within CS–PVA blend, the elastic modulus increased over 200%. The cell viability and proliferation results showed that MC3T3-E1 mouse osteoblastic cells can adhere and developed on the CS–PVA/GO composite films. A significant proliferation potential was displayed by the cells in contact with CS–PVA/GO 6 wt.%. Graphene oxide reinforced CS–PVA with high mechanical and bioactive properties are potential candidates for tissue engineering.