Halloysite nanotube microspheres connected to an electrospun nanofiber membrane for effective and riskless hemostasis

Abstract

Effective and risk-free hemostasis procedures are desirable but remain challenging. Halloysite nanotubes are FDA-approved aluminosilicate mineral materials that have coagulation properties. Herein, the poly (lactic acid) electrospun nanofibers with high biocompatibility were connected to halloysite nanotube microspheres to prevent potential distal thrombosis risks arising from detached individual halloysite nanotubes. Compared to halloysite nanotubes, halloysite nanotube microspheres with a diameter of approximately 3.0 μm exhibited tightened incorporation of nanofibers and semi-exposed interaction area on surface. With the addition of 7 wt% halloysite nanotube microspheres, the optimum blood coagulation time in vitro was 171 s. The main functional components of blood adhered to the halloysite nanotube microsphere-incorporated nanofiber membrane, and further, the free platelets were activated, and then a blood clot formed. Thus, the aforementioned halloysite nanotube microsphere-incorporated nanofiber membrane with acceptable air breathability and mechanical properties is a viable candidate as a hemostatic material for compressible hemorrhage control, like bandage.