Durians are well-known for their pungent smell and their sweet taste and custard-like texture. Scientists in Singapore have found another reason for people to love the king of fruits.
They have created antibacterial bandages from durian husks that they claim can help heal post surgery wounds.
The technology was developed by a team of researchers at Singapore’s Nanyang Technological University (NTU). It uses an inexpensive process to extract cellulose from the durian’s thick, green husks. The cellulose is mixed with glycerol to create a soft, silicone-like gel to produce plasters. The bandages are also odorless.
Bandages made from durian husks are said to benefit both the environment and medicine. Unlike existing plasters, the new bandages contain hydrogels that can protect wounds. The hydrogel also provides moisture to help remove infected tissue and encourage healing.
Although many medical experts are excited about this innovation, the scientists behind the durian bandages clarified that the new bandages aren’t primed to replace all existing bandages yet.
The current model isn’t 100 percent biodegradable as it still uses plastic. The scientists hope to improve their invention and bring the durian bandages to the market within the next two years.
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