A group of young scientists from the Moscow Aviation Institute (MAI) has developed innovative packaging for transporting and storing blood for extended periods. A special coating of silver ions, applied to the inner surface, destroys microbes and significantly extends the shelf life of the blood.
The new development is particularly relevant for military field conditions and regions with low access to medical services. Scientists conducted a series of experiments and confirmed the safety of the coating for blood cells — it does not cause hemolysis (destruction of cells).
Methods of storing and transporting blood are one of the most promising areas of research. Together with colleagues, we have verified that our coating is completely safe for blood cells — the protective layer does not cause hemolysis, and therefore the development can be used even in the field.
A key feature of the new packaging is the method of applying silver ions. For this, a plasmotron is used — a special device that creates plasma and evenly distributes the disinfecting substance over the surface, ensuring its tight adhesion without damaging the packaging.
The development can significantly improve the blood transfusion system, especially in remote areas and during emergencies, where rapid delivery of blood to hospitals is difficult. The packaging allows blood to be kept in a condition suitable for transfusion for significantly longer than traditional containers.
In the future, the technology can be adapted for storing other biological materials, which will open up new opportunities in medicine and biotechnology.
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