Graphene-kaolin composite sponge for rapid and riskless hemostasis

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Materials Chemistry
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Kaolin is an effective hemostatic agent but challenging to apply in powder form.
• Developing wieldy and potent hemostats is crucial for practical medical applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel graphene-kaolin composite sponge (GKCS) as an improved hemostatic agent.
• To evaluate the hemostatic efficacy and biocompatibility of the GKCS.

Main Methods:

• GKCS synthesized using graphene oxide sheets, linker molecules, and kaolin via hydrothermal reaction.
• Characterization using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) mapping.
• Hemostatic efficacy tested on rabbit artery injury; biocompatibility assessed via cytotoxicity and hemolysis tests.

Main Results:

• GKCS exhibits a porous structure with kaolin embedded within graphene sheets.
• The sponge efficiently absorbs plasma and concentrates blood cells, accelerating clotting.
• Achieved hemostasis in approximately 73 seconds in rabbit artery injury model.
• Demonstrated good biocompatibility with low cytotoxicity and hemolysis.

Conclusions:

• GKCS is a promising, easy-to-use hemostatic agent with excellent biocompatibility.
• The composite sponge effectively accelerates blood clotting through multiple mechanisms.
• GKCS represents a potential riskless hemostatic solution for trauma treatment.