Scientists from Empa have developed a special medical fabric made of polymer fibers that releases an active antimicrobial agent only when the inflammatory process begins. This should save medication and prevent side effects from drug overexposure.

Consists of a reasonable dressing of a harmless composite, combined with polymethyl methacrylate and a biocompatible mixture of polymers. Inside the fibers is an antiseptic – octenidine dihydrochloride.

As long as the surface of the wound keeps the temperature between 32-34 degrees, the polymer mixture remains intact, keeping the medicine inside. However, as soon as inflammation begins, accompanied by an increase in temperature to at least 37 degrees, the polymer softens and releases a portion of octenidine into the infected tissue.

When the temperature returns to normal, the polymer hardens again – until the next time. In total, the bandage carries five charges of the drug.

So far, scientists are trying to reduce the level of the temperature range (while the polymer reacts to drops of 4-5 degrees), which is necessary for the activation of the material, and in parallel they are studying the possibility of using auxiliary agents, including dosed antibiotics.