Fizzy microparticles may save lives on the battlefield
Battlefield medics and paramedics rely on chemical-infused bandages to help stem blood loss and treat wounds. However, the blood itself is frequently their worst enemy -- it takes those chemicals away from where they're needed. Those first responders may soon have a much smarter solution, though. Researchers have developed bandages with a combination of powdered marble, acid and enzymes that fizzes on contact with blood, using the resulting bubbles to transport microparticles toward deeper vessels that need clotting. The particles currently travel in all directions, but scientists envision using an endoscope to send the fizz to where it's most useful.
The technique has only been tested in the lab so far. You may be waiting a while before you see these gas-powered patches in the wild, in other words. Suffice it to say that they could be lifesavers, especially for soldiers who may have no quick access to a hospital. The augmented bandages would not only heal wounds faster, but reduce the chances of complications that might prove deadly.
[Image credit: Getty Images/Flickr RF]
