American scientists from the University of Central Florida have developed an antimicrobial gel to stop blood. After application to an injured area of the body, the substance expands, turning into foam. The study was published in the scientific journal Biomaterials Science (BioMatSci). According to experts, they sought to create a simple solution that could be used in the field immediately after a person is injured. Statistically, most fatalities could be avoided by stopping bleeding within the first 30 minutes of injury. The team designed and tested a gel-like material called SilFoam made from siloxanes (compounds of silicon and oxygen). It is applied to the wound from a special dual-chamber syringe and resembles the assembly foam used in construction to insulate seams in structures. SilFoam is capable of expanding to seven times its original volume. The resulting spongy mass closes the wound and disinfects it due to the silver oxide in its composition. Blood stoppage with its help occurs in less than a minute. According to the scientists, the resulting foam is sticky enough to stick to the body, but it can be painlessly removed without damaging the skin. The authors of the development noted that for the successful application of their system does not require any training, and the syringes with the gel can be stored at room temperature.