Dutch researchers are looking into developing a new self-healing concrete, which also acts as a wireless car charger. After noticing the road-induced anxiety electric car drivers face due to their batteries constantly draining, researchers turned to a new method for charging cars that literally starts from the ground up.
The researchers are proposing to use a self-healing asphalt to tackle the city's decaying infrastructure, while also combating the inconveniences of driving an electric car. Self-healing concrete is a relatively new innovation that brings about endless possibilities for construction and road innovations. The holes in the asphalt are filled with bacteria, instead of stones. These bacteria are activated when damages are detected and generate enough heat to seal the cracks. Researchers believe that with enough heat, the asphalt could also generate electricity, giving electric cars a quick charge while stopped at traffic lights, or intersections.
The self-healing asphalt, if successful, could alter the way electric cars are perceived, while allowing for autonomous maintenance on city's roads.
Electric Vehicle-Charging Roads
This Self-Healing Concrete May Have the Ability to Charge Your Car
Trend Themes
1. Self-healing Concrete - The development of self-healing concrete presents opportunities for disruptive innovation in construction and road infrastructure.
2. Wireless Car Charging - The integration of wireless car charging into roads offers opportunities for disruptive innovation in electric vehicle technology.
3. Autonomous Road Maintenance - The concept of self-healing asphalt opens up possibilities for disruptive innovation in the maintenance and management of city roads.
Industry Implications
1. Construction - The construction industry can explore the use of self-healing concrete for more durable and sustainable infrastructure projects.
2. Electric Vehicle - The electric vehicle industry can leverage wireless car charging technology to enhance convenience and eliminate range anxiety.
3. Road Infrastructure - The road infrastructure industry can consider adopting autonomous maintenance approaches using self-healing asphalt for improved efficiency and cost-effectiveness.