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Article in Nature Materials
This manuscript introduces a new generation of bioinspired materials that are able to repeatedly and autonomically heal crack damage through the incorporation of embedded microvascular networks. Delivery of healing agents to a damaged region via this microvascular network overcomes a significant limitation of previously reported, microencapsulated-based self-healing materials [White et al, 409, Nature, 794-797, 2001] i.e., the finite supply of healing agent contained within the capsules. The microvascular delivery mechanism provides a renewable source for the healing agents, which therefore enables repeated healing of fracture events and significantly extends the life of these materials.
Cover Story in March 22, 2007, issue of Nature
Electrocyclic ring closing reactions are molecular rearrangements in which a cyclic structure is formed from a linear π system. Specifically, a new single bond is generated between the termini of the π system, and the product has two fewer π electrons. The converse process is known as electrocyclic ring opening.