Plasma synthesis and characteristics of nanocomposite coatings based on PVA and chitosan with incorporated nanoparticles for the healing of skin wounds

This study investigated the impact of new composites based on PVA and chitosan on wound healing in mice. Metal or metal oxide nanoparticles were synthesized without reagents by creating an impulse discharge between metal electrodes in a polymer dispersion. Polymer composites and coatings were then prepared using these nanoparticles. The composites were analyzed using various techniques, including UV spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, scanning and transmittance electron microscopy, and infrared spectroscopy. The maximum concentration of nanoparticles in the composite was 3.5 %. The average diameter of the nanoparticles was approximately 50–60 nm. The inclusion of Ag and ZnO nanoparticles accelerated the healing process by approximately 25 %. •Polymer nanocomposites one-step synthesized using underwater impulse discharge plasma.•Production of polymer composites in one step without the use of chemical precursors.•Positive effect of ZnO and chitosan/PVA patches on healing of full-thickness wounds.•Inclusion of Ag and ZnO nanoparticles accelerated healing process by 25 %.