A team of engineers has created a material capable of independently repairing damaged electrical circuits without interrupting functioning.
Although the formidable T-1000 terminator is still the property of science fiction, real science is gradually bringing the creation of robots to an ever more advanced level. A group of engineers have created a resilient electronic material that can self-repair its circuits after damage.
The new electronic skin consists of droplets of liquid metal placed on a rubber-like material that can bend, stretch, and fold. Speaking of the fact that the material can "self-repair", it should be noted that the rubber pad will not repair itself. But if the circuits are damaged, the metal is released and immediately creates new connections to replace the old ones. This allows the robotic skin to function even when it has received mechanical damage.
To demonstrate their invention, engineers connected an electronic clock to it and cut off pieces of material - the timer did not stop running.
The engineers who developed the material hope that their invention will help create more and more advanced robots, as well as facilitate the interaction between robots and humans. Such materials will make cars incredibly durable, and they will not be afraid of aggressive environmental influences. In addition, e-skin can be used to create a new generation of practical, durable dentures.
Vasily Makarov