Transforming pomelo peel waste into multifunctional biomaterials for hemostasis and wound healing

Abstract

Pomelo peel (PP), an abundant yet underutilized by-product of fruit consumption, holds immense potential for biomedical innovation due to its porous structure and bioactive compounds. Here we show an eco-friendly transformation of PP into high-performance materials for hemostasis and wound care using scalable manufacturing methods: CO₂ expansion and carbonization. The resulting expanded decellularized pomelo peel (EDPP) sponges exhibit rapid liquid absorption, exceptional porosity, and shape recovery, enabling efficient platelet activation and accelerated hemostasis. In a diabetic wound healing model, EDPP significantly outperformed commercial dressings by enhancing granulation tissue formation, collagen deposition, and wound closure. The carbonized pomelo peel (CPP) aerogels leverage photothermal effects to eradicate bacterial biofilms, promoting the healing of infected wounds. These sustainable materials, derived from agricultural waste, provide innovative solutions for critical healthcare challenges, reducing environmental waste while addressing the global demand for effective wound management systems.