Revolution in material research: self -healing hydrogel developed!

Revolution in material research: self -healing hydrogel developed!

Scientists from the University of Bayreuth and the Aalto University have developed an innovative self-healing hydrogel that imitates human skin. According to FOCUS , this hydrogel is able to be injured within four hours to 80-90% To heal and is completely restored after 24 hours. This ability makes it a promising material for future applications.

On one of the greatest challenges in the material sciences, the development of a material that is both stable and self -healing, the researchers have now found a solution. The hydrogel contains ultra-thin tone nanochlits, which significantly improve both mechanical stability and the self-healing ability of the material. Josef Breu from the University of Bayreuth had a decisive influence on the development of this fascinating material.

production and properties of the hydrogel

The production of the new hydrogel is characterized by a simple process: monomer powder is mixed with water-based nanosheets and then hardened with UV light. This method results in a millimeter thick hydrogel, which contains about 10,000 layers of nanosheets and thereby gains remarkable strength. The material remains highly flexible and elastic, despite its stability.

The polymer chains in the hydrogel behave similarly to wool threads that automatically connect to injuries. This ability of the hyrogel to regenerate itself is achieved by interweaving the polymers between the nanosheets. According to a publication in the journal Nature Materials On March 7, 2025, these properties could have revolutionary effects on the development of new, bio-inspired materials ( eurekalert ).

application options and future research

An area of this research is closely linked to the activities of Robert Geitner, who researches self -healing polymers at the University of Jena. His project, under the care of Prof. Dr. Jürgen Popp is focused on how materials, similar to human skin, cracks or injuries can be repaired independently. Geitner's innovative approaches are also used in industries such as aerospace as well as in wind turbines ( Color and Lack ).

The development and research of self -healing materials is therefore on the threshold of significantly expanding the properties of artificial substances and supporting their use in various high technology areas.