Hydroxyapatite Combined with Graphene Hydrogels for Hemostat Applications: An In Vitro Analysis

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Background: Uncontrolled bleeding remains a significant cause of mortality in traumatic injuries and surgical procedures. Hemostatic materials play a crucial role in preventing excessive blood loss and ensuring effective wound healing. Graphene-based hydrogels, particularly when combined with hydroxyapatite (HAP), offer a promising approach for hemostatic applications due to their high porosity, rapid blood absorption, and bioactivity.

Aim: This study aims to fabricate and evaluate HAP-graphene hydrogel membranes as potential hemostatic agents by assessing their clotting efficiency and morphological characteristics.

Materials and Methods: Graphite oxide (GO) was synthesized using the Hummers method. HAP was prepared using calcium carbonate and ammonium hydrogen phosphate under a calcination process. A composite HAP-GO membrane was fabricated by blending HAP and GO in a 1:1 ratio with alginate, followed by cross-linking with calcium chloride. The hydrogels were characterized using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) for surface morphology analysis, and their hemostatic performance was evaluated by measuring clotting time.

Results: SEM analysis revealed a highly porous structure in the HAP-GO hydrogels, facilitating rapid blood absorption and interaction with clotting factors. The clotting time using the HAP-GO hydrogel was significantly reduced to 4 minutes and 10 seconds, compared to the normal clotting time of 5–7 minutes. The improved hemostatic efficiency was attributed to calcium ion release from hydroxyapatite, which accelerates the coagulation process.

Conclusion: The results indicate that HAP-GO hydrogels exhibit enhanced hemostatic properties, making them promising candidates for trauma care and surgical applications. Future research should focus on optimizing mechanical properties and biocompatibility for clinical translation..