Bursa Technical University researchers develop smart wound dressing

Academics at Bursa Technical University (BTU) are developing an innovative smart wound dressing designed to visually monitor the healing process and infection risks. Supported by the TÜBİTAK 1002-A Rapid Support Module, the project aims to create a system that indicates pH changes in a wound through color shifts.

Because rising pH levels are a key indicator of infection, the dressing will allow healthcare professionals to detect potential issues visually. The design features a localized sensor structure rather than covering the entire dressing, which helps maintain durability and ensures better compatibility between layers.

The dressing will utilize a PVA/CMC-based polymer system, with the pH-sensitive sensor section composed of natural pigments within chitosan. The research team, led by Assistant Professor Ayşe Gül Türe and Associate Professor Ayşenur Yeşilyurt, is currently testing the prototype for liquid retention, color change speed, and durability.