By: IPP Bureau
Last updated : June 30, 2026 8:31 pm
The cost-effective dressing combines chitosan-coated cotton gauze with a curcumin-loaded nanofibrous layer to minimise tissue damage, prevent infections, and accelerate wound healing while reducing discomfort during dressing changes
Researchers at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Rourkela have developed a smart wound dressing that addresses common challenges associated with conventional cotton gauze, including infection risk, pain during dressing changes, and damage to newly formed tissue.
Led by Prof. Prasoon Kumar from the Department of Biotechnology and Medical Engineering, the innovation combines chitosan-coated cotton gauze with an electrospun nanofibrous layer loaded with curcumin, a natural antimicrobial compound.
The nanofibrous layer acts as a protective barrier between the wound and the gauze, reducing adhesion and minimising tissue damage when the dressing is removed.
It also enables the sustained release of curcumin, helping maintain a sterile wound environment while promoting tissue regeneration and reducing the need for frequent dressing changes.
Laboratory studies demonstrated that the dressing effectively lowers wound adhesion compared to conventional gauze while supporting cellular growth and providing continuous antibacterial protection.
According to the researchers, the dressing can be manufactured using simple and scalable methods, with an estimated commercial cost of ₹50–60 for a 10 cm × 4 m bandage roll, compared with around ₹30 for conventional cotton gauze.
The findings have been published in the journal Emergent Materials. Supported by grants from the ANRF-PAIR and SERB-SRG programmes, the research team plans to file a patent and collaborate with industry partners to advance the technology towards clinical trials.