Application of benzyl hyaluronate membranes as potential wound dressings: evaluation of water vapour and gas permeabilities

Membranes of 75% and 100% benzyl hyaluronate esters (percentage of total carboxylate groups esterified) were prepared and their water vapour, oxygen and carbon dioxide transmission rates determined. The values of these properties were compared with the values obtained for several commercial wound dressings under the same conditions. The benzyl hyaluronate membranes showed water vapour transmission rates (2157–2327 g m−2 per day) comparable to those from commercial skin dressings (426–2047 g m−2 per day). In the dry state, the benzyl hyaluronate membranes showed lower oxygen and carbon dioxide transmission rates. Taking into account the biocompatibility of the hyaluronic acid esters, and the possibility that therapeutic agents could be incorporated into these membranes, the results indicate that the benzyl hyaluronate membranes have potential wound dressing applications.