Create an artificial skin, are capable of rapid self-healing

Scientists at Stanford University have developed an artificial skin, which heals within half an hour after it appeared on the cut.

Researcher Chao Wang and his team have devised a synthetic plastic material, which consists of long chain molecules joined by relatively weak hydrogen bonds. This means that the molecules are easily broken. These tiny particles of the nickel added to impart conductivity and strength of the plastic.

The result was a polymer with unusual features: samozazhivlyayuschiysya, flexible and held.

The molecules easily separated, and when they re-unite, due rebuilt and restore the structure of the material after the injury. To demonstrate the ability of healing material scientists scalpel cut it into two halves and then squeezed material pieces for several seconds. After 30 minutes, the material is almost completely regained its strength. The process was repeated 50 times, and each time the material is returned to its original state.

The researchers also tested how to use artificial skin as a sensor. Since the material is flexible, it twisting or stretching changes the distance between the particles of nickel, that is easy or obstruction in the movement of electrons. These subtle changes in electrical resistance convey information about pressure and tension on the skin, that is, make it "feel».

The researchers hope that the synthetic material can be used in prosthetics and coating of electronic devices.

via factroom.ru