Scientists Invent Hydrogel That Mimics Human Skin To Completely Heal Wounds Within 24 Hours – News18
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Scientists from Aalto University and the University of Bayreuth developed a hydrogel mimicking human skin with extraordinary healing properties, featuring clay nanosheets and a dense polymer network
This groundbreaking hydrogel could be available for medical applications within 5-7 years. (News18)
Scientists have achieved a remarkable feat – developing a gel that mimics human skin and possesses extraordinary healing properties. It features a distinctive structure made up of ultra-thin clay nanosheets and a dense polymer network. When applied to a cut or wound, it works swiftly and effectively. This ground-breaking gel, made by researchers from Aalto University and the University of Bayreuth, still in its experimental stages, but holds the promise of transforming wound care as we know it.
What is Hydrogel?
Hydrogels are water-rich polymer materials known for their softness and flexibility, making them ideal for mimicking biological tissues. Scientists incorporated ultra-thin clay nanosheets into the hydrogel, enhancing its mechanical strength and bestowing it with exceptional self-healing properties.
Making Of The Gel Skin
This gel was made using a unique method. For the creation process, scientist Chen Liang combined monomer powder with water containing nanosheets. This mixture was then exposed to UV radiation, similar to setting gel nail polish. The UV light facilitated the bonding of molecules, forming a flexible, skin-like hydrogel. In this gel, layers of polymers intertwined like ‘tiny woollen threads’, providing the foundation for its self-repairing abilities.
The most remarkable feature of this hydrogel is its rapid healing ability. When cut, it has the capacity to heal up to 80-90% within four hours and fully restores itself within 24 hours. This extraordinary healing process stems from the mobility of the polymer network and their activity at the molecular level.
Application On Wounds
To apply it on a cut or wound, first the wound needs to be cleaned and washed with an antiseptic solution to remove dirt, bacteria and dead tissue. The wound can then be lightly dried so that the hydrogel can adhere more effectively. Since this hydrogel is water-rich, it can work effectively even in a moist environment, which is conducive to wound healing.
Shape Of The Hydrogel
This hydrogel is both flexible and stretchable, allowing it to be cut or shaped to fit the wound. It can be provided as pre-made sheets or patches, or moulded from a liquid before application.
When applying the hydrogel, it is carefully placed on the wound, where it adheres easily. Once the wound has healed, the hydrogel may need to be removed, which can be done by gently peeling it off, though it may also dissolve naturally over time.
Structure And Strength
The hydrogel effectively replicates the resilience and elasticity of human skin. A one-millimeter thick sample comprises around 10,000 nanosheets, making it strong and stretchable. This balance makes it suitable for applications in soft robotics and artificial skin, where both strength and flexibility are paramount.
Future Prospects
This discovery was announced through a research paper published in the journal Nature Materials on March 7, 2025. Currently in the research and development phase, the hydrogel needs to undergo rigorous testing before being available for medical use. Extensive in vitro and in vivo tests will be conducted to ensure its safety and efficacy for humans.
While a specific timeline remains uncertain, experts estimate that this ground-breaking hydrogel could be available for medical applications within 5-7 years, potentially revolutionising wound healing, artificial skin development, and other medical interventions.
