Graphene family materials (GFM) are currently considered to be one of the most interesting nanomaterials with a wide range of application. They can also be used as modifiers of polymer matrices to develop composite materials with favorable properties. In this study, hybrid nanocomposites based on chitosan (CS) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) were fabricated for potential use in bone tissue engineering. CS/rGO hydrogels were prepared by simultaneous reduction and composite formation in acetic acid or lactic acid and crosslinked with a natural agent-tannic acid (TAc). A broad spectrum of research methods was applied in order to thoroughly characterize both the components and the composite systems, i.e., X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy, X-ray Diffractometry, Attenuated Total Reflection Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy, ninhydrin assay, mechanical testing, in vitro degradation and bioactivity study, wettability, and, finally, cytocompatibility. The composites formed through the self-assembly of CS chains and exfoliated rGO sheets. Obtained results allowed also to conclude that the type of solvent used impacts the polymer structure and its ability to interact with rGO sheets and the mechanical properties of the composites. Both rGO and TAc acted as crosslinkers of the polymer chains. This study shows that the developed materials demonstrate the potential for use in bone tissue engineering. The next step should be their detailed biological examinations.
Keywords: acetic acid; chitosan; graphene oxide; hydroxyapatite; lactic acid; reduced graphene oxide; tannic acid.