Synthesis and characterization of polyvinyl alcohol/cellulose cryogels and their testing as carriers for a bioactive component

► Novel PVA/microcrystalline cellulose cryogels were obtained by freezing/thawing. ► The main advantage of this technique is that no chemical crosslinker is being used. ► The presence of cellulose improves the swelling properties and the cryogels' strength. ► The potential application as carriers for bioactive components was tested.