Self-help for ailing structures

摘要: Abstract The notion of structures that mend themselves sounds more like an idea from science fiction than a topic for scientific investigation. Not so, say the researchers who are drawing inspiration biological healing processes to create new composites with built-in tool kit. This approach materials maintenance is attracting considerable interest aerospace industry, given potential value self-repairing airplanes and spacecraft. But first, self-help concept needs be proven outside laboratory in tests mimic likely wear tear scenarios real world. It relatively easy illustrate system using familiar examples. Remember what happened when you tripped on sidewalk as child grazed your knee or last time cut finger. Almost at once, blood rushes site injury, leaking out where skin has been punctured. wait while, oozing slowly superficial cuts scratches begins clot. clot formation slows, bleeding stops, and, after scab forms over damaged surface. Eventually, falls off revealing patch skin. Your body healed itself, having responded instantaneously subconsciously initial injury.