Systematic studies on blood coagulation mechanisms of halloysite nanotubes-coated PET dressing as superior topical hemostatic agent

Halloysite nanotubes (HNTs), a traditional mineral Chinese medicine, have been used to stop bleeding for thousands of years. However, the coagulation mechanisms of HNTs and their practical application potential have not been fully elucidated. In this study, HNTs were found to accelerate hemostasis via multiple dependent approaches: (i) absorbing water and concentrating blood due to their super-hydrophilicity and unique tubular nanostructure; (ii) triggering an intrinsic coagulation cascade by negatively charged surface interaction; and (iii) accelerating clot formation by activating and linking with platelets. To solve the difficulty in the application of powder, a HNT-coated polyester fiber dressing was designed by an impregnation method. The HNT coating enables the dressing to resist massive hemorrhaging of the liver and vessels, as well as epidermal bleeding. Moreover, the HNT-coated fiber dressings are not accompanied by burning or adhesion at the wound sites. In summary, this work provides profound insight into HNT hemostasis through the physical and biological interactions between HNTs and blood, which represents a promising strategy for effective prehospital treatment and civilian needs.