This NASA Polymer Can Seal Itself Back Up After a Gunshot
Charlotte Joyce Kidd — September 2, 2015 — Unique
References: pubs.acs.org & engadget
Self-healing materials seem like the stuff of sci-fi novels and Terminator movies. But NASA has actually invented a polymer that can seal itself after having a bullet shot through it.
The impressive material is made up of three layers. Sandwiched between two layers of solid polymer is a thin layer of liquid polymer. When one of the outer solid polymer layers is punctured, the inner liquid layer rushes to fill the gap or hole. Upon contact with oxygen, it rapidly solidifies, sealing the wound in the material.
Other than being sewn into superhero capes and forming the body of the Batmobile, self-healing materials could be used in the future to make self-repairing smartphones, cars and even spaceships.
The impressive material is made up of three layers. Sandwiched between two layers of solid polymer is a thin layer of liquid polymer. When one of the outer solid polymer layers is punctured, the inner liquid layer rushes to fill the gap or hole. Upon contact with oxygen, it rapidly solidifies, sealing the wound in the material.
Other than being sewn into superhero capes and forming the body of the Batmobile, self-healing materials could be used in the future to make self-repairing smartphones, cars and even spaceships.
Trend Themes
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Industry Implications
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