Nanoporous Zeolite Anchored Cellulose Nanofiber Aerogel for Safe and Efficient Hemostasis

Abstract Clay‐based hemostatic materials are commercially available devices designed to control massive bleeding. However, their widespread application is hindered by concerns related to material safety and hemostatic efficacy. In this study, a hemostatic aerogel composed of cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) and Calcium ion‐exchanged nanoporous zeolite is developed. CNFs facilitate the in‐situ synthesis of nanoporous zeolites, and the zeolites are firmly embedded within the aerogel through abundant hydrogen bonds. Notably, the zeolite loading in the aerogel is only 2.89 wt.%, significantly lower than the 18.76 wt.% kaolin content in QuikClot combat gauze. Despite the low loading, the nanoporous zeolites exhibit high efficiency in promoting prothrombin‐to‐thrombin conversion and accelerating blood clotting. The reduced zeolite content, combined with its strong binding to the aerogel matrix, minimizes the risks of exothermic burns and detached particle‐induced distal thrombosis. The animal experiments reveal that the aerogel rapidly controls severe femoral artery bleeding and substantially reduces blood loss. This study presents a novel formulation of zeolite‐based hemostatic materials, offering remarkable improvements in both safety and efficacy.