New Polymer Material Could Mean Self-Mending Medical Implants

A new polymer material that can repeatedly heal itself at room temperature when exposed to ultraviolet light could potentially mean the development of self-mending medical implants, according a QMed report.

The polymer, developed by researchers at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, Penn., and Kyushu University in Japan, heals itself when a crack is pressed together and exposed to UV light. With further refinement, experts believe the material could mend itself many more times than its current record — around five times when cut and reassembled.  

The polymer contains carbon-sulfur bonds that promote the self-healing process. While the repair process takes hours now, researchers say future developments could eventually mean the development of self-mending medical implants and other useful applications.

Read the QMed report on self-mending medical implants.

Read more on medical supplies:

-6 Predictions on Device Market Growth in the Next Five Years

-New Jersey Nurse Gets Two Years in Prison for Stealing $30K in Surgical Equipment

Copyright © 2024 Becker's Healthcare. All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policy. Cookie Policy. Linking and Reprinting Policy.

 

Featured Webinars

Featured Whitepapers