Characterization of cassava fibre for potential wound dressing application

Wound dressing is the application of a sterile pad to protect a wound from further harm and promote healing. Over the past decades, various materials including calcium alginate, hydrogel, hydrocolloid and gauze based wound dressing materials have been developed. Unfortunately, shortcomings such as potential allergic reaction, high cost, short shelf life and scarcity have been associated with their use. In developing countries such as Ghana, sterilized gauze is commonly used in wound dressing but it causes scar formation and traumatic pain during removal. In addressing the issues of cost and availability, there may be local materials like cassava (Manihot esculenta) with the ability to aid in wound healing. Cassava is a cheap staple crop grown in Africa which is rich in carbohydrate, fibre and minerals. This research characterized three genotypes of cassava (IITATMS-GAEC-160006 (IT6), IITA-TMS-GAEC-160004 (IT4) and Afisiafi (Afi)). These genotypes have been studied in terms of their fibre content, fluid absorption capacity, hemolytic ability and their ability to promote rapid blood coagulation (coagulation time). Fibre samples were soaked in deionized (DI) water and PBS (Phosphate buffered saline) and at different time intervals the swollen samples were weighed. Fibre samples were also brought into contact with human blood and toxicity of samples determined. The results reveal that the rate of absorption of fluid by fibres in both DI water and PBS ranges between 0.66-0.93 g/min and fibres are generally non-toxic to blood cells. The fibre properties were compared with gauze and from these, some genotypes of cassava fibre were recommended for further research towards the design of a wound dressing material.