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The report provides an in-depth analysis of the technological and commercial progress of self-healing materials, covering 20+ application areas and considering technology readiness level (TRL). Self-healing materials, which can repair physical damage, have the potential for disruptive innovation in material design, with an almost boundless total addressable market. The report examines current market trends, key players, and emerging applications, offering actionable insights for stakeholders. Self-healing materials can recover from damage through various mechanisms, including microcapsules, vascular systems, and intrinsic properties. The report highlights the importance of autonomous and non-autonomous healing, as well as the challenges of scaling these materials for mass production. Key application areas for early adoption include construction materials, bulk polymers, tires, paints, and coatings. The report also explores emerging applications, such as energy storage devices, sensors, and robotics, offering growth opportunities through a disruptive innovation approach to material design. IDTechEx’s expert analysts provide a comprehensive assessment of the market, offering unbiased outlooks, technology comparisons, and player analysis.

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A Chinese research team has developed a strong and self-healing bio-based polyhydroxyurethane (PHU) network using carbonized daidzein (DZ-BCC) and amines. The PHUs have high mechanical stability, can be recycled, and show excellent reprocessing efficiency. They can be used as adhesives for bonding wood and glass, with tensile strengths of up to 28.3 MPa and shear strengths of up to 6.4 MPa for wood and 3.4 MPa for glass. The materials also demonstrate remarkable self-healing properties, with a tensile strength that can be restored to 94% of its original value after 30 minutes at 150°C. The research suggests that bio-based PHUs could be used to develop sustainable high-performance adhesives. This advance has significant implications for industries that require strong, sustainable, and reusable materials, such as construction, automotive, and aerospace. Further research is needed to fully exploit the potential of these materials, but the current results are promising for the development of a more sustainable future.

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Researchers have developed a novel, sustainable, and safe adhesive material called polyhydroxyurethane (PHU) based on carbonated daidzein (DZ-BCC) and amines. This bio-based PHU displays promising properties as a high-performance adhesive. The material combines high mechanical strength, self-healing ability, and resistance to high temperatures. The self-healing properties allow for a significant restoration of tensile strength after exposure to high temperatures, making it an ideal material for bonding applications. The PHU-based adhesive also demonstrates excellent adhesion to wood and glass, with shear strengths of up to 6.4 MPa and 3.4 MPa, respectively. Additionally, the material is chemically recyclable and high reprocessable, making it a sustainable option. The researchers believe that these properties could expand the range of applications for sustainable high-performance adhesives, particularly in the wood and glass industries. This discovery has significant implications for the development of eco-friendly, high-performance adhesives.

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Scientists at the University of Bristol have created a new class of “active matter” that can exhibit life-like behavior, such as moving and changing shape. The material is made up of tiny Janus particles, which are micrometre-sized particles with hemispheres made of two different materials with distinct physical properties. When an electric field is applied, these particles assemble into 3D worm-like structures. The particles are referred to as “synthetic worms” that can move independently, allowing for the potential design of devices that can move different parts of themselves, or swarms of particles that can search for targets. This could have applications in healthcare, such as targeted medicines. However, the researchers caution that these real-world applications are likely to be far in the future. The study was published in Physical Review Letters and demonstrates a new level of control over the assembly and motion of active matter, which could have significant implications for a wide range of fields.

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Wearable electronic devices have the potential to revolutionize healthcare by providing continuous health monitoring, early disease detection, and personalized treatment options. However, current devices are limited by durability concerns, such as material degradation and sensitivity to environmental factors. A new development in electronic skin (e-skin) technology may overcome these limitations. Researchers at the Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation have created an ultra-rapid, self-healing e-skin that can recover over 80% of its functionality within 10 seconds of being damaged. This material is designed to maintain flexibility and electrical conductivity while being highly resistant to mechanical damage. The e-skin uses a network of silver nanowires embedded in a self-healing polymer matrix, allowing it to restore electrical connections quickly after being torn or scratched. This technology has the potential to create reliable and practical wearables for daily use. The e-skin is particularly well-suited for monitoring muscle strength and fatigue, and can provide valuable data for applications in sports performance, rehabilitation, and general health monitoring. While further development is needed, this technology could lead to reliable, long-lasting wearable health monitors that improve personal health management and medical diagnostics.

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Researchers have developed a novel self-healing coating that combines improved mechanical and adhesive properties with improved self-healing. This was achieved by grafting ATP nanorods on NH2-Ti3C2Tx nanosheets, which were functionalized with 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES) and attapulgite (ATP). The resulting nanocomposite, designated as AMQM, was used to create self-healing epoxy films that exhibit improved properties. The coating showed excellent corrosion resistance, with an increase in impedance from 0.073 MΩ cm2 to 2.189 MΩ cm2 after 96 hours. Simulations suggested that the inhibitors bind strongly to the AA2024-T3 alloy, with twice the adsorption energy compared to individual inhibitors. This pH-sensitive self-healing coating offers a promising approach for corrosion suppression. The research demonstrates the potential for novel nanomaterials to improve the performance of self-healing coatings. This breakthrough could have significant implications for industries that require high-performance coatings, such as offshore oil rigs, ships, and civil engineering projects.

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The University of Texas (UT) will lead a multidisciplinary team in a Phase I research award from the NSF Centers for Chemical Innovation Program, totaling $1.8M. The project, led by UT’s Professor Ellington, aims to develop self-replicating materials, which will go beyond traditional self-healing materials. According to Professor Schroeder, “Self-replicating materials are more like how the human body heals a wound, by regenerating the material itself”. The team aims to create sustainable materials that can grow, adapt to stress, and respond to stimuli, just like living organisms. The UT portion of the Phase I grant is $750,431 and the team may compete for an additional $4 million Phase II grant. This project brings together experts from academic institutions and government organizations, including UIUC, Princeton University, and Sandia.

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Researchers have developed a new type of asphalt that can repair its own cracks over time, inspired by the regenerative abilities of trees and certain animals. The self-healing asphalt is made by combining natural spore microcapsules and waste-based rejuvenators, which release recycled oils when cracks form, softening the bitumen and allowing it to flow back together. The researchers used artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms to develop the material, analyzing organic molecules in the bitumen and identifying chemical properties that contribute to self-healing capabilities. The new asphalt has the potential to improve infrastructure and promote sustainability worldwide, addressing the problem of potholes in the UK, which cost millions annually in repairs. The material is still in the development phase, but it holds promise for revolutionizing the construction and maintenance of roads.

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The global self-healing materials market is expected to grow from an estimated USD 2.1 billion in 2024 to USD 14.7 billion in 2033, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 24.10%. This growth is driven by advancements in technology and increasing demand for sustainable materials across various industries.

The market is expected to experience substantial growth in the concrete and coatings segments, particularly in the automotive and aerospace industries. In December 2022, Riken, a Japanese research institution, developed a self-repairing polymer, while BASF’s RODIM brand introduced a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) paint protection film with self-healing capabilities.

Innovation is expected to play a crucial role in driving the growth of the market. The development of new polymer matrices, the incorporation of healing agents, and optimization of activation mechanisms are expected to enhance mechanical strength, thermal stability, and chemical resistance in these materials. Challenges in scaling up production and simplifying manufacturing processes remain a barrier to wider adoption.

Top companies in the global self-healing materials market include Covestro AG, High Impact Technology, LLC, Huntsman International LLC, Michelin Group, and others. Collaborations and acquisitions between companies, as well as partnerships with government organizations and research institutions, are expected to accelerate the growth of the market.

Regionally, North America, Asia-Pacific, and Europe are expected to drive growth in the market, while the Middle East and Africa, Latin America, and the Benelux regions are expected to grow at a slower pace.

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Researchers have created self-healing asphalt that can mend its own cracks, reducing the need for frequent road maintenance and pothole repair. The material is made by embedding tiny plant spores filled with recycled oils into asphalt, which release their contents to soften the bitumen and allow it to flow back together when cracks form. In lab tests, the self-healing asphalt repaired microcracks in under an hour. This technology has the potential to extend the lifespan of roads by 30% and save countries billions of dollars in repair costs. The environmental benefits are also significant, as the material incorporates biomass waste and reduces reliance on petroleum-based products. However, more research is needed to determine its performance in real-life scenarios and potential structural stability issues. If successful, this technology could be scaled up for use on British roads within a few years, making roads more sustainable and reducing the impact of potholes on drivers and the environment.

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Welsh scientists from Swansea University and King’s College London, in collaboration with Chilean researchers, have developed self-healing asphalt roads made from biomass waste and artificial intelligence (AI). The asphalt can mend its own cracks without maintenance or human intervention, addressing the UK’s £143.5 million annual pothole problem. The team used machine learning to study organic molecules in bitumen, the sticky black material in asphalt, and incorporated tiny plant spores filled with recycled oils that release when the asphalt cracks. In laboratory tests, the advanced asphalt material completely healed a microcrack in under an hour. The researchers aim to develop sustainable infrastructure by reducing carbon emissions from asphalt production and creating net-zero roads. The innovation has the potential to improve infrastructure and advance sustainability worldwide.

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The article reviews the development of cyanoacrylate adhesives, with a focus on recent research advances. The authors discuss the role of zwitterionic polymerizations and the use of alkyl cyanoacrylates as adhesives. They also explore the synthesis and degradation of poly (alkyl α-cyanoacrylates) and the properties of pressure-sensitive adhesives.

The review covers various types of adhesives, including acrylic, polyvinyl acetate, and epoxy-based adhesives, as well as their uses in applications such as packaging, construction, and biomedical devices. The authors also discuss recent advances in the development of supramolecular adhesives, which use non-covalent interactions to create strong bonds between surfaces.

The article highlights the potential of these new adhesives for a range of applications, including biomedical implants, sensors, and wearable devices. It also touches on the importance of designing adhesives that are biocompatible, biodegradable, and reprocessable.

The authors conclude by outlining the challenges and opportunities in the field of cyanoacrylate adhesives, including the need for further research into the fundamental understanding of their properties and behavior. Overall, the review provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of the field and its potential future directions.

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The US Air Force is utilizing a unique “self-healing” reef, designed by Rutgers University, to protect its base in Florida from extreme weather events. The “Reefense” modules are made of concrete and living oysters, which will form a 160-foot-wide reef to reduce the risk of property damage and increase human safety during flooding. The structures will also provide a habitat for oysters, which can attach to each other to form natural seawalls. The project combines ecological and engineering solutions, with the goal of creating a robust and resilient shoreline. The US Air Force is also taking steps to reduce its environmental impact, including testing all-electric aircraft and utilizing clean, renewable energy at a base in Texas. The Reefense project is set to make a significant difference in the face of increasing natural disasters in Florida, which has experienced devastating weather events in recent years.

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The global self-healing polymer market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 26.2% from 2024 to 2031, driven by the increasing demand for sustainable, cost-effective, and durable materials. Self-healing polymers can autonomously repair damage, improving the durability and lifespan of materials in various sectors. The market is dominated by Europe, followed by East Asia, and is expected to grow significantly in all major regions.

The market is driven by the growing focus on sustainability, technological advancements, and innovations in material science. Key sectors driving the market’s growth include automotive and aerospace, electronics, healthcare, and construction and infrastructure. The self-healing polymer market is witnessing increased adoption across multiple industries due to its ability to address specific challenges related to durability, performance, and maintenance.

Challenges facing the market include the high cost of production, scalability concerns, and the need for greater education and awareness about the benefits of self-healing polymers. The market is expected to continue to expand, creating new opportunities for manufacturers and end-users alike, with the potential to become a ubiquitous solution across industries.

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The micromorphology of the hydrogel was studied using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The SEM images showed a dense and uniform structure with no obvious pores above 1 μm. The addition of chitosan (CS) to polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) increased the formation of porous structures, which was due to the ice crystals produced during freezing. The addition of CS also increased the number of polymer chain aggregates, which was confirmed by resonance light scattering (RLS) spectra. The self-healing properties of the PVA-CS/TA hydrogels were evaluated using tensile testing, and the results showed that the hydrogels with a higher CS content had better self-healing properties. The microscopic self-healing behavior of the PVA-CS/TA0.5 hydrogel was also studied using optical microscopy, and the results showed that the fissures were well-restored over time. The static self-healing efficiency of the PVA-CS/TA0.5 hydrogel was evaluated, and the results showed that it reached 84% within 2 hours. The molecule structure of PVA, TA, and CS was also discussed, and the self-healing mechanism was proposed to be due to the formation of hydrogen bonds and electrostatic interactions between the three molecules.

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The text describes the chemical composition analysis and thermal stability analysis of microcapsules containing ODA (octadecyl amine) and EC (epoxy resin). The Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) spectra of the microcapsules, EC, and ODA are compared to confirm the encapsulation of ODA in the EC. The thermal stability analysis shows that the microcapsules begin to decompose at around 100°C, with a second decomposition peak around 268°C.

The morphological analysis of the microcapsules shows that they are spherical and have a smooth surface, allowing for better encapsulation of ODA. The particle size distribution shows that most of the microcapsules are between 100-120 μm in diameter.

The corrosion resistance of the self-healing coatings is also evaluated. The results show that the coatings with 6 wt% addition amounts of microcapsules have better corrosion resistance than those with other addition amounts. The corrosion resistance is further improved by adding microcapsules to the epoxy coatings, as shown by the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and potentiodynamic polarization curve results.

The self-healing coatings are also tested for their ability to repair cracks and scratches. The results show that the self-healing coatings can effectively repair cracks and scratches, while the pure epoxy coatings cannot. The self-healing mechanism is attributed to the adsorption of ODA on the metal surface, which forms a hydrophobic film and prevents corrosion.

Overall, the results suggest that the microcapsules containing ODA and EC are effective at improving the corrosion resistance and self-healing properties of the coatings. The ODA acts as an adsorption corrosion inhibitor, forming a hydrophobic film on the metal surface and preventing corrosion. The EC provides a matrix for the encapsulation of ODA, protecting it from degradation and allowing it to be released and adsorbed on the metal surface as needed. The combination of ODA and EC results in a coating with improved corrosion resistance and self-healing properties.

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A team of researchers from Bournemouth University has developed a new type of plastic that can heal itself after being cracked or broken. The plastic, which contains nanosheets of MXene, a material that strengthens plastics, has a healing agent attached to it. When the plastic is broken and exposed to humidity, the healing agent becomes active and bonds the broken sections back together, restoring the plastic to 96% of its original strength. This breakthrough has the potential to greatly reduce plastic waste and extend the life of various products, including reusable drink bottles, mobile phones, and pipes. The team is now working on designing devices that can repair themselves, including sensors that can detect human motion and self-repair after being damaged. This technology could pave the way for new-generation electronics that require minimal maintenance and last longer. The researchers believe that their findings could have a significant impact on reducing plastic waste and promoting sustainability.

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The authors designed a novel self-healing and magnetic actuating fibre, termed SHINE fibre, for use in soft robotics, displays, and wearable electronics. The fibre consists of a nickel (Ni) electrode core, an electrolyte (EL) dielectric interlayer, and a transparent hydrogel electrode cladding. The SHINE fibre exhibits omnidirectional actuation and electro-luminescence capabilities, with a record luminance of 1068 ± 8.5 cd/m².

The fibre is fabricated using coaxial wet-spinning and ion-induced gelation processes. The Ni electrode core and EL dielectric interlayer are composed of PVDF-HFP composites with fluorosurfactant Zonyl FS-300, which introduces dipole-dipole interactions and improves self-healing properties. The transparent hydrogel electrode cladding is made of a SA-C/LiCl/Gly network, which allows for high ionic conductivity and transparency.

The fibre exhibits robustness and self-healing properties, recovering 98.6% of its pristine luminance after being severed and healing at 50°C for 3h. The fibre also displays magnetic actuation capabilities, with a maximum magnetization of 14.7 Am²/kg, allowing it to be used for applications such as light-emitting soft robotics and human-robot interactions.

In addition, the fibre is capable of capacitive proximity sensing and can be wirelessly powered using inductive coupling at 13.56 MHz. The fibre’s compact coaxial configuration and ion-induced gelation fabrication method enable it to be flexible and robust, making it suitable for use in soft robots and other applications.

Overall, the SHINE fibre is a novel and versatile material with potential applications in soft robotics, displays, and wearable electronics. Its self-healing and magnetic actuation capabilities make it an attractive solution for developing interactive devices that can recover from damage and operate in a range of environments.

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