Modern science has taken a step towards creating robots similar to the legendary Terminator: scientists have managed to create a unique skin that practically does not differ from natural human skin.
The initial state of the plastic (left). When damaged (center), after recovery (right)
American scientists have developed a skin-like plastic that “bleeds” after being damaged and then heals itself. The invention can improve the durability of gadgets, cars and even airplanes.
Researchers from the University of Southern Mississippi presented their discovery at the annual meeting of the American Chemical Society in San Diego. If an incision is made on "live" plastic, a red line will appear on its surface, similar to a bloody trail.
Damaged molecules react to light, changes in temperature or acidity levels and begin to build "bridges" that help the material recover. That is, the plastic "regenerates" according to the principle of wound healing.
“Mother Nature has endowed all kinds of biological systems with the ability to recover,” said the project's lead researcher, Professor Marek Urban.
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According to the scientist, the material that warns of damage with a red trace on the surface will be useful in many areas. For example, revolutionary plastics could signal damage to critical aircraft structures.
In addition, it can extend the lifespan of mobile phones, computers and cars. It remains for the mechanics to decide whether to replace the broken part or "heal" it with intense exposure to light.
Now Professor Urban's team is working to integrate the technology into a plastic that can withstand high temperatures.
