3D printing self-healing gel or can completely solve the problem of broken screen
A group of researchers at the University of Melbourne are developing a unique 3D printed self-healing gel for mobile devices. The end result may be a self-healing smartphone that will completely eliminate the inconvenience caused by broken screens! Published in the magazine Royal Society of Chemistry's Molecular Systems Design & Engineering.
This polymer-based self-healing gel self-regenerates after injury and behaves much like living tissue. This unique property extends product life, and prior to this, mechanical failures often limited product life. The self-healing process is based on dynamic covalent chemistry, where researchers can form, break, and recombine chemical bonds in a controlled manner to manipulate the properties of printed objects.
This project is also a 4D printing example because the printed materials change their properties over time. This feature brings a variety of potential applications. The texture of the gel is similar to toothpaste, but when pressed, it flows like a liquid and forms a solid shape.
“We inject dynamic chemicals into this polymer, which enhances the gel; but by stimulation (such as changes in acidity), we can weaken the gel, which can repair cracks in the material,†the researchers explained. .
It is these dynamic properties that allow the material to repair damage and the repair process is not complicated, simply by simply converting its basic structure. In the future, all that is needed to repair a mobile phone, a broken screen or a dentted door is just some stimulation, such as heating or humidification.
At present, researchers still face some challenges in using self-healing gel 3D printing screens. The touch screen is a complicated thing, and researchers need to consider the functions and display elements of the screen. However, in the near future, non-interactive screens or cell phone cases that are self-healing can be achieved.
In addition to changing shape, strength and flexibility, this revolutionary gel can also change color. The last feature makes it possible to use it as a sophisticated camouflage technology. Soldiers fighting in remote areas will be able to 3D print clothing and equipment that match the environment to achieve better concealment, just like a chameleon. In this way, they do not have to carry many different types of concealed equipment, and the weight will be greatly reduced.
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