A polymer when applied to a fresh wound stops bleeding within five seconds

29-Apr-10

A polymer which when applied to a fresh wound stops bleeding within five seconds has been developed by researchers at the Department of Biological Sciences and Bio Engineering of IIT-Kanpur. The Natural Polymer Sponge (NPS) has been developed from a chemical found in crab shells. A polymer sponge can promote haemostasis - the process to prevent the flow of blood from an injured body part. This polymer is expected to revolutionise medical treatment, as excessive bleeding has often been the main cause of fatalities. After conducting animal trials, the IIT-K team is now looking forward for clinical testing of the product and is also planning to apply for a patent.