Team of researchers from the Chalmers University of Technology, Sweden have designed rubber-like material which could act as human tissues in medical procedures. Sources reveal the rubber-like material has unique properties which could suitably integrate into the body. The latest study has especially designed the material which consists of components that are proven to work well in the body.
According to sources, the material used is similar to plexiglass, which is also used in several medical technology applications. Experts further reveal, a process of redesigning its makeup and nanostructuring has given the patented material a unique combination of properties.
Anand Kumar Rajasekharan, PhD in Materials Science and one of the researchers said they had initially expected a hard bone-like material, but were “really surprised that the material turned to be very soft, flexible and extremely elastic. It would not work as a bone replacement material, we concluded. But the new and unexpected properties made our discovery just as exciting.”
The newly discovered rubber-like material was suitable for several applications with unusual combination of properties such as easy processability, elevated elasticity and is suitable for medical use.
“The first application we are looking at now is urinary catheters. The material can be constructed in such a way that prevents bacteria from growing on the surface, meaning it is very well suited for medical uses,” commented researcher Martin Andersson. He is also Professor of Chemistry at Chalmers.
Furthermore, since the material can be inserted with keyhole surgery, it can also help to minimize the need for drastic surgery in order to rebuild parts of the body. Moreover, the material can be 3D printed into specific structures and can also be injected with a standard cannula like a viscous fluid, so that it forms its own elastic structures within the body.
“There are many diseases where the cartilage breaks down and friction results between bones, causing great pain for the affected person. This material could potentially act as a replacement in those cases,” Martin Andersson added.
The team alleged it would be working with start-up- Amferia for future research in the project.
