Self-healing robots would be ideal in environments where making repairs is difficult, such as space or the deep sea. Most self-healing robots involve polymers that can heal when heated then cooled, but researchers have identified methods for autonomous healing, including the use of polymers with hydrogen bonds, with varying bond strengths resulting in strong, flexible materials.
Researchers also have developed conductive self-healing materials, such as by adding liquid metal or dielectrics and semiconductors to self-healing polymers. Now, researchers said a portfolio of self-healing products should be developed so it is possible to shop from the different materials and combine them in one big application.
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