Plastic That Bleeds?

Recently, I read an article about a plastic created by Marek W. Urban. This is no ordinary plastic. In fact, it is a plastic that bleeds. When this special type of plastic is cut, it bleeds red just like a human being. Another thing it has in common with humans is that it can heal itself. It may seem impossible, but it’s not. The reason this type of plastic is able to do this is because it is made from water-based copolymers. When these copolymers are cut or cracked, their molecular link breaks. What Marek Urban did is that he changed this copolymer so that when it breaks, you can see the color of it change. This breakthrough occurred at the University of Southern Mississippi, but it was actually presented at the American Chemical Society’s national meeting in San Diego on Monday, March 26, 2012.

In my opinion, this new type of plastic is a wonderful invention. First, it is easy to apply. All you need to do it put a thin coat of the copolymer on any material. Next, it can fix anything. Many people have cracked cell phone screens and this new plastic can fill the cracks. This will make the cell phone screen look good as new. Also, it can improve safety. For instance, when there is a mechanical issue or something breaks in an airplane, the color will change and the problem will be visible. In addition, the copolymer works using any type of heat or light. Overall, this breakthrough is life changing for many people. 

Link: http://www.popsci.com/technology/article/2012-03/new-plastics-bleed-red-when-scratched-then-heal-themselves-skin