Liquid bandage is typically
polymer dissolved in a solvent (commonly water or an alcohol), sometimes with an added
antiseptic and
local anesthetic, although the alcohol in some brands may serve the same purpose. These products protect the wound by forming a thin film of polymer when the carrier evaporates. Polymers used may include
polyvinylpyrrolidone (water based), ethyl cellulose,
pyroxylin/
nitrocellulose or poly(methylacrylate-isobutene-monoisopropylmaleate) (alcohol based), and
acrylate or
siloxane polymers (
hexamethyldisiloxane or
isooctane solvent based). In addition to their use in replacing conventional
bandages in minor cuts and scrapes, they have found use in surgical and veterinary offices. Liquid bandages are increasingly finding use in the field of combat, where they can be used to rapidly stanch a wound until proper medical attention can be obtained. ==Scenarios for usage==