Researchers at NIT Rourkela have created a smart wound dressing that prevents infections, reduces pain during removal, and accelerates healing — offering a superior alternative to traditional cotton gauze.
Led by Dr. Prasoon Kumar, Assistant Professor in Biotechnology and Medical Engineering, the team designed the dressing using chitosan-coated cotton gauze integrated with an electrospun nanofibrous layer containing curcumin, a natural antimicrobial compound. The nanofibrous layer prevents sticking, minimises tissue damage, and releases curcumin gradually to maintain a sterile environment.
Laboratory tests showed that the dressing reduces wound adhesion and supports tissue regeneration. The researchers emphasised affordability — a standard gauze roll costs ₹30, while the smart version may retail for ₹50–₹60 when commercialised.
The findings, published in Emergent Materials, were co-authored by Dr. Devendra Verma, Dr. Earu Banoth, and research scholars Swagatika Barik, Rika Rani Pradhan, Shikha Tripathi, and Samadrita Roy.
