Fully recyclable hydrogel begins healing itself within minutes
Researchers at Northeastern University have developed a new type of hydrogel that is fully recyclable and capable of self-healing. By replacing permanent chemical bonds with reversible ones, the material can repair scratches and tears.
Why it matters
This innovation could lead to more sustainable and durable materials for medical devices like contact lenses.
by Katya Poltorak, Northeastern University
edited by Lisa Lock , reviewed by Robert Egan
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:
Add as preferred source This self-healing material replaces the permanent bonds found in conventional hydrogels with reversible ones. Credit: Matthew Modoono/Northeastern University Imagine this. You pick up a contact lens from its container and—yikes!—it falls on the bathroom floor. Before you know it, your cat pounces, claws out. By the time you wrestle it back, the lens looks like a tiny chew toy. And then, just like that—the scratches fade away and the ripped edge seals itself up.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in