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Hydrogels with light-induced antibacterial properties and their exemplary application in innovative wound dressings

01IF00385C

The aim of the research project is to develop non-adhesive, highly transparent hydrogels with controllable antibacterial properties based on the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) when doped zinc oxide (ZnO) structures included in the hydrogel are excited with light at a wavelength above 400 nm.

In order to achieve light penetration into the hydrogel via polymer optical fibers (SE-POF), the refractive index of the hydrogel is adapted to that of the fiber core.

The antibacterial properties of such hydrogels are based on the slow release of zinc ions and in particular on the formation of ROS, the concentration of which can be regulated by the light intensity as well as the duration and frequency of exposure to light. Depending on the concentration, ROS can promote wound healing.

In order to develop a wound dressing for thermal injuries (e.g. burns), the hydrogels are synthesized on a textile carrier provided with SE-POFs; suitable process parameters are being researched for this purpose.

In addition to medical technology companies, textile manufacturers and the chemical industry in particular will also benefit from the research results. In addition to burn victims, the healthcare sector will also benefit.

The results can also be used to develop self-cleaning and self-disinfecting coatings, e.g. for surfaces in the healthcare sector, as well as innovative filter systems for process water treatment. Cleaning service providers can use the project results to offer innovative services and improve their profitability.

The pro­ject is sup­port­ed by the Fed­er­al Min­istry of Eco­nom­ic Af­fairs and Cli­mate Ac­tion due to a de­ci­sion of the Ger­man Bun­des­tag.