Abstract: A biodegradable silica-based xerogel with nano-scale mesopores was synthesized by using improved sol-gel process, and its hemostatic properties were investigated. The phase state, chemical structure, surface morphology, specific surface areas and mesoporous structure of the synthesized silica-based xerogels were measured systemically by means of X-ray diffraction (XRD), infrared spectrum (FTIR), transmission electron microscope (TEM), and N2 adsoption-desoption (BET) techniques, respectively. The effects of the silica-based xerogel on intrinsic and extrinsic blood clotting systems were examined through the activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) and prothrombin time (PT) tests in ~vitro, respectively. The hemostatic performance of the prepared silica-based xerogel was evaluated at the rabbit’s ear side veins compared with a traditional hemostatic dressing (Yunnan Baiyao). The results reveal that the non-crystalline silica-based xerogel with 901.17m²/g specific surface areas and 3.255nm in apertures is obtained after calcining at 600℃. The silica-based xerogel facilitates both of the intrinsic and extrinsic clotting activities significantly. The silica-based xerogel has good hemostatic effect on the rabbit’s ear side veins which is better than that of the Yunnan Baiyao.

Key words: silica-based xerogel, mesopore, specific surface area, hemostasis