Selbstreparierende

Selbstreparierende, a German term, translates to "self-healing" in English. It refers to materials or systems that possess the intrinsic ability to repair damage autonomously without external intervention. This concept is inspired by biological processes observed in living organisms, such as wound healing in the skin or bone regeneration.

The field of self-healing materials aims to create synthetic substances that can mend cracks, scratches, or other forms of degradation. This is often achieved through embedded microcapsules containing a healing agent that is released upon damage, or through the use of intrinsically reversible chemical bonds within the material's structure. When a crack forms, these mechanisms are activated, filling the void and restoring the material's integrity and functionality.

Applications for self-healing materials are diverse and include coatings for preventing corrosion, longer-lasting electronic components, and more durable structural materials for aerospace and automotive industries. The goal is to extend the lifespan of products, reduce maintenance costs, and enhance safety and reliability. Research is ongoing to develop more efficient, versatile, and cost-effective self-healing solutions.