Harnessing the strength of rivals is a revered mantra in martial arts. In a way, it is the underlying philosophy of his group of researchers at MIT in the United States that published the latest paper. innovative materialCarbon dioxide is usually demonized as a cause of global warming, but in this case it is a key factor in the development of new materials that are highly resistant to tearing and abrasion. Synthesized by American researchers, the polymer is inspired by plants that use carbon dioxide as a reaction in the photosynthetic process.
we have already dealt with Self-healing and smart materials In the past. Some use spores and bacteria as healing agents, while others are based on a network of nanotubes that release a sealant when the material cracks. again, mineral carbonation of carbon dioxide. now, New technology developed by MIT It combines both approaches in an efficient and pioneering way.
materials they are working on reacts to atmospheric carbon dioxide Then, like a plant, it grows, strengthens, and even begins to repair.It is basically a gel-like synthetic polymer containing chloroplasts, one of the biological compounds that allow plant cells to capture sunlight. It is to start deteriorating after a few hours. innovative technology projectsIn addition to chloroplasts, the gel contains aminopropylmethacrylamide and glucose, as well as an enzyme called glucose oxidase. is based on
many self-healing material Those studied in the past had to be activated by some technique such as UV light or pressure. However, the new gel works only with light and carbon dioxide.
According to the scientists behind the project, this is the first time carbon dioxide synthesis technology has been implemented in construction materials.Besides that, of course Self-healing propertiesthe new materials could help reduce the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.
the future is now
This gel, which solidifies in the presence of air and light, currently lacks the strength to replace cement and concrete. self-healing material It can be used both as a façade and interior coating to improve building durability. It can also be used as a crack repair. Fortunately, this is not some distant future technology. It’s a commercially viable product because an MIT team has already developed the technology to mass-produce it.
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