Researchers at Łukasiewicz – Industrial Chemistry Institute have developed and patented a breakthrough hydrogel that could revolutionize healthcare. 

It is based on natural polymers: starch derivatives and glucomannan, providing an environmentally friendly replacement for the synthetic materials commonly used today. It breaks down quickly and naturally. 

The dressings created on their basis will effectively protect against microbial growth thanks to bioactive additives, and maintain an appropriate level of moisture, which speeds up the wound healing process while providing relief. They will be adaptable to the patient’s needs – enriching hydrogels with active substances, enables the release of drugs in a controlled manner. 

The hydrogels developed at Łukasiewicz – IChP have also a number of non-medical applications. They can effectively support innovation in cosmetology (innovative moisturizing masks), agriculture (soil, thanks to hydrogels, retains water for long periods of drought) and water purification (absorption of pollutants such as heavy metals, dyes or oils). 

Łukasiewicz – IChP scientists are currently looking for partners willing to support the development of this new technology.