An Optimized Chitosan‐Gelatin Hydrogel as a High‐Performance Bioink for 3D Bioprinted Wound Dressings

ABSTRACT In this study, a new bioink composed of chitosan (CS) and gelatin (GEL) hydrogels is developed and evaluated for 3D bioprinted wound dressing applications. The hydrogels are formulated at different CS/GEL mass ratios (50/50, 60/40, 70/30 and 80/20) and analyzed by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), pH measurements, swelling, in vitro biodegradation, optical microscopy and rheological tests to assess their physicochemical performance and printability. The results demonstrate that polymer ratio notably affects viscosity, thermal stability and degradation kinetics. The CS/GEL–60/40 formulation demonstrates optimal performance, exhibiting balanced rheological behavior with shear‐thinning flow, excellent shape fidelity after bioprinting, suitable pH (≈ 5.0) for skin application, high swelling capacity and controlled biodegradation. These characteristics favor the formation of stable and moist dressings that promote tissue regeneration. Overall, the CS/GEL–60/40 hydrogel shows the best combination of printability and mechanical stability, confirming its potential as a promising bioink for the fabrication of patient‐specific wound dressings via 3D bioprinting.