Preparation and hemostatic properties of mesoporous silica-based xerogels

A biodegradable silica-based xerogel with nano-scale mesopores was synthesized by using improved sol-gel process, and its hemostatic properties were investigated. The phase state, chemical structure, surface morphology, specific surface areas and mesoporous structure of the synthesized silica-based xerogels were measured systemically by means of X-ray diffraction (XRD), infrared spectrum (FTIR), transmission electron microscope (TEM), and N-2 adsoption-desoption (BET) techniques, respectively. The effects of the silica-based xerogel on intrinsic and extrinsic blood clotting systems were examined through the activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) and prothrombin time (PT) tests in vitro, respectively. The hemostatic performance of the prepared silica-based xerogel was evaluated at the rabbit's ear side veins compared with a traditional hemostatic dressing (Yunnan Baiyao). The results reveal that the non-crystalline silica-based xerogel with 901.17m(2)/g specific surface areas and 3.255nm in apertures is obtained after calcining at 600 degrees C. The silica-based xerogel facilitates both of the intrinsic and extrinsic clotting activities significantly. The silica-based xerogel has good hemostatic effect on the rabbit's ear side veins which is better than that of the Yunnan Baiyao.