Nanomaterials for Self-Healing Hydrogels

Abstract

Materials with self-healing property are considered as the smart materials for various advanced technological applications. Previously only living substances such as tissues were thought to have self-healing properties that are required for their survival and adaptation to environmental changes. Recently, novel synthetic materials such as hydrogels have been prepared and developed which demonstrated self-healing performances. Exceptional self-healing has been observed in hydrogels introducing different kinds of nanoparticles. These hydrogels have exceptional functionality and mechanical properties. The techniques of the introduction, exploration, and measurement of the properties related to self-healing are challenging due to the wide variety of substances. In this chapter, efforts have been made to discuss the mechanism, types, and drawbacks of nanomaterial-modified self-healing hydrogels.

Self-Healing Nanocomposites—Advancements and Aerospace Applications

“…Another extrinsic self-healing approach is the use of nanofillers in the nanocomposites, which may trigger the recovery process, instead of using encapsuled healing agents. In the case of self-healing nanocomposites, nanofillers such as graphene and carbon nanotube may cause healing of the damaged surface [170]. Research must focus on the modification of healing agents and catalysts used and also the release mechanism of these compounds under damage.…”