Figure 1. Sample Bag of Artificial Blood (
Source)
Brief: Scientists have been attempting to develop a blood substitute since the 1800's. Early attempts to try and use animal blood, urine, and even beer have ended up with the patient having extreme reactions sometimes ending with death which led to their disuse. Eventually, these studies led to human to human blood transfusions, but it was observed that these only had a 50% chance of success. Shortly thereafter, it was discovered that humans have a blood type that belongs to A, B, O, or AB. The first successful prototype solution was created by Sidney Ringer composed of sterilized distilled water, sodium chloride, calcium chloride, and potassium chloride. This fluid effectively acted as a blood volume-expander although it was unable to carry oxygen like regular blood does.
