Optimization of preparation of hydrogel with antimicrobial effects

Abstract

Microbial resistance is a new phenomenon that humanity has had to deal with since the period of mass use of antibiotics. With the increasing strains of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, the field of research is shifting to new materials with already discovered or potential antibacterial effects. Ionic liquids incorporated into hydrogels belong to such materials. Acrylate and methacrylate polymers are suitable materials for these applications. In the diploma thesis, hydrogels based on a copolymer of 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate containing various amounts of positively charged thiazolium groups were prepared. The hydrogels were characterized using methods of FTIR, SEM, TGA, rheology, swelling and tests of antimicrobial properties. Improvements in swelling properties have been shown with increasing amounts of thiazolium groups, but deterioration in mechanical properties and thermal stability has been found. Antibacterial and antifungal properties have been demonstrated for all types of materials containing positively charged thiazolium groups.