IIT Kanpur Develops Revolutionary Seagrass-Derived Sponge for Rapid Hemostasis

IIT Kanpur's Materials Science and Engineering Department has developed a groundbreaking haemostatic sponge made from seagrass and cellulose, designed to stop bleeding within a minute. This innovation is poised to transform emergency medical care, especially in critical situations like road accidents, by providing a cost-effective, biodegradable solution.

Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur have pioneered a haemostatic sponge that promises to revolutionize emergency medical care. Created by the Department of Materials Science and Engineering, this innovative sponge is crafted from seagrass and cellulose, stopping bleeding within a minute of application.

The sponge, developed using red seagrass found abundantly along India's coastlines, has been rigorously tested and proven to demonstrate rapid clotting capability. The development boasts three patents, including one with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and two credited solely to IIT Kanpur, affirming its potential as an essential tool for emergency responders.

Professor Vivek Verma of IIT Kanpur describes the innovation as a fusion of India's natural resources with advanced materials science, resulting in a biodegradable, cost-efficient product. The sponge leverages the moisture-absorbing properties of traditional sponges to drastically reduce clotting time, making it ideal for situations where medical assistance is limited. Human trials are anticipated to begin soon to fast-track this solution to market, enhancing survival rates in critical scenarios.

(With inputs from agencies.)