Bio-Medical Textiles

Biomedical textiles are fibrous structures designed for use in specific biological environments, where their performance depends on biocompatibility with cells and biological tissue or fluids.
For example, in tissue engineering, scientists at CSIRO are developing new biocompatible fibrous scaffolds upon which new tissue is grown for implants.
CSIRO combines skills in chemistry, fibre and materials science with biological expertise to develop fit-for-function biomedical textiles and understand their interactions with biological systems.
Examples of the application of biomedical textiles and biomaterials include:
  • Implantable materials and devices
  • Biocompatible materials for regenerative medicine, such as tissue engineering
  • Neural repairs.
  • Biomedical textiles are textile products and constructions, for medical and biological applications. They are used for first aid, clinical or hygienic purposes. Examples of their application are:

    Protective and healthcare textiles

    Surgeons' wear, Operating drapes and Staff uniforms, etc.

    External devices

    Wound dressings, bandages, pressure garments, prosthetic socks, etc.

    Implantable materials

    Sutures, vascular grafts, artificial ligaments, etc.

    Hygiene products

    Incontinence pads, nappies, tampons, sanitary towels, etc.

    Extracorporeal devices

    Artificial liver, artificial kidney, artificial lung, etc.