Rourkela, July 21 (UDN): In a significant step towards sustainable healthcare innovation, researchers at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Rourkela have developed a patented biodegradable and antimicrobial bio-composite film that could replace conventional plastic-based materials used in medical products such as wound dressings, bandages, and biomedical coatings.
Developed by researchers from the Department of Biotechnology and Medical Engineering, the innovation addresses the twin challenges of reducing biomedical plastic waste and promoting environmentally sustainable healthcare solutions.
The research team, led by Dr. Angana Sarkar, Associate Professor, and research scholar Dr. Pritam Bajirao, developed the bio-composite film using a naturally occurring bioplastic produced by bacteria cultivated on sugarcane molasses. To improve the material’s performance, the researchers incorporated naturally extracted neem oil, enhancing its strength, flexibility, durability, and antimicrobial properties.
Laboratory evaluations demonstrated that the film offers improved mechanical strength, thermal stability, and moisture resistance while remaining fully biodegradable. The neem oil component helps inhibit bacterial growth and supports a favourable environment for wound healing, making the material suitable for a wide range of biomedical applications.
The innovation has the potential to replace petroleum-based plastics in healthcare products, including wound dressings, antimicrobial films, biomedical coatings, and plastic-free bandages, providing a safer and more environmentally responsible alternative.
Researchers have also indicated that the production cost of the bio-composite film is economical, making it a promising candidate for large-scale manufacturing and commercial adoption.
The patented technology aligns with national initiatives such as Atmanirbhar Bharat, Make in India, and the National BioE3 Policy, reinforcing India’s focus on indigenous innovation and sustainable manufacturing.
The breakthrough is expected to contribute to cleaner healthcare practices by reducing plastic waste while supporting the development of affordable, eco-friendly medical products for the future.
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