DESIGNING SELF-HEALING MATERIALS: ADVANCES IN CHEMISTRY AND APPLICATIONS

Abstract

The development of self-healing materials has emerged as a transformative innovation in materials science, driven by the need for enhanced durability, sustainability, and performance across various industries. These materials possess the intrinsic or extrinsic ability to repair damage autonomously or with minimal external intervention, thereby extending their functional lifespan. Recent advances in chemistry have played a crucial role in tailoring the molecular design, cross-linking mechanisms, and dynamic bonding strategies that underpin self-healing behavior. Techniques such as reversible covalent bonding, supramolecular interactions, and microencapsulation have expanded the scope and effectiveness of self-repair systems. Applications range from aerospace and automotive components to biomedical devices and consumer electronics, where reliability and longevity are critical. This review highlights the latest progress in chemical strategies, fabrication techniques, and real-world applications, while also addressing current challenges and future directions in the design of self-healing materials.