Rapid hemostatic chitosan/cellulose composite sponge by alkali/urea method for massive haemorrhage

Here, a simple and efficient strategy to produce porous and hydrophilic chitosan/cellulose sponge using surfactant and pore-forming agent is demonstrated. The preparation of composite sponge by LiOH/KOH/urea solvent system effectively solve the problems of uneven distribution of chitosan, poor softness and acid residue caused by soaking in chitosan acid solution. The obtained chitosan/cellulose sponges exhibit high water absorption capacity and rapid shape recoverability, as well as good mechanical properties. Effective inhibitory on Escherichia coli , Staphylococcus aureus , and Pseudomonas aeruginosa are particularly proved. Besides, the result of the dynamic whole blood clotting time indicated that the chitosan/cellulose composite sponge has better coagulation ability than those of traditional gauze and gelatin sponge. Animal experiment further showed that rapid hemostasis within 34 s can be reached with the composite sponge. Better biocompatibility of the composite sponge is proved by the results of hemocompatibility and cytotoxicity, indicating an excellent candidate for rapid hemostasis in massive haemorrhage. • A facile and efficient synthesis strategy to prepare chitosan/cellulose sponge. • The problems caused by soaking chitosan acid solution are solved effectively. • The composite sponge shows better blood coagulation ability and biocompatibility. • The composite sponge exhibits rapid hemostasis ability within 34 s.