Microcapsules

Concrete sewage pipes lead a hard life, constantly being exposed to corrosive acid produced by bacteria in wastewater. A new additive could allow such concrete to self-heal – and it would do so using water treatment sludge.

Although there are glues that work underwater, they typically require at least 24 hours to set – which can be tricky in chaotic marine environments. A new additive, however, reportedly allows underwater resin adhesives to set in just 60 seconds.

​Aedes aegypti, the mosquito that transmits diseases such as dengue, zika, and yellow fever, is typically controlled utilizing insecticides that harm the environment. Now, however, scientists have created eco-friendly mozzie-killing microcapsules, made from cheap natural thyme oil and corn starch.

Rather than always replacing parts, fixing things or just throwing them away, self-healing materials can patch themselves up as required. Now, researchers at are working on extending the life of membranes in hydrogen fuel cells by equipping them with similar self-healing powers.

By using slow-release microcapsules, researchers at Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) could make it possible for a protein molecule known to reduce inflammation and aid in the repair of damaged tissue to be used to treat osteoarthritis.

Scientists have developed injectable microparticles containing oxygen gas, that could be used to raise blood oxygen levels when a patient's lungs aren't working or their airway is blocked.

Scientists are creating self-healing electronics, that use liquid metal to instantly restore conductivity to cracked circuits.

A new technique allows researchers to create multilayered drug- or cell-containing microparticles in a variety of shapes and materials.

Researchers have taken inspiration from the caoutchouc tree to create a self-healing elastomer.

An Iowa State University scientist is attempting to create biorenewable polymers that are also able to self-heal themselves.

New technology will cause bike helmets to stink when they need to be replaced.

Researchers are developing a self-healing first-aid kit for electrical systems that could lead to safer, longer lasting batteries and stop circuits within a device such as a mobile phone or laptop failing when they suffer a fall.