The electron beam induced cross-linking of bovine collagen gels with various concentrations: The mechanical properties and secondary structure

This study considered the examination of the influence of electron beam irradiation (2 and 100 kGy) on bovine collagen gels with various concentrations (3, 6 and 8 wt%). The impact of irradiation was verified via the analysis of the mechanical properties and the secondary structure of the collagen. The irradiated collagen gels behaved non-linearly and stiffened with increasing strain in contrast to the non-irradiated state in which they softened with increasing strain. The impact of irradiation was reflected by an increase in the tensile modulus and strain energy density. The observed increase was greater the higher the water content of the collagen gels. The impact of irradiation on the secondary structure was less clear; infrared spectrometry revealed that the events that take place are complex, with the occurrence of cross-linking, partial denaturation and other structural changes. The electron beam irradiated collagen gels continued to exhibit collagenous polymeric structures and integrity.