A group of scientists drawn from the Leibniz Institute for Polymer Research, Tampere University of Technology and the Dresden University of Technology have teamed up to develop self-healing rubber tire technology.
There are few things as annoying as suffering a flat tire and having to patch or replace it. Now however, damaged tires could be left for a few hours to heal on their own.
Tires these days are usually manufactured using the process of vulcanization, which involves adding compounds such as a sulfur to the rubber. This improves the tire's durability by forming sturdy cross-links. However, once broken, these links cannot be repaired.
These self-healing rubber tires get around that problem by discarding the vulcanization aspect altogether. The addition of a special carbon/nitrogen compound allows the tires to heal themselves.
Self-Healing Rubber Tires
This New Tire Production Process Can Allow Flat Tires to Heal Themselves
Trend Themes
1. Self-healing Rubber Tires - This technology allows rubber tires to heal themselves, eliminating the need for patching or replacing.
Industry Implications
1. Tire Manufacturing - Integrating self-healing technology in tire manufacturing could revolutionize the industry and enhance tire durability.
2. Automotive - Self-healing rubber tires could provide a safer and more convenient driving experience, reducing the frequency of tire-related incidents.
3. Materials Science - Developing self-healing rubber tire technology is an exciting innovation opportunity within the field of materials science, with potential applications in other industries as well.