Smart polymeric materials are revolutionizing various industries by offering exceptional flexibility,
impact resistance, and energy dissipation. These advanced materials are designed with specialized
polymers and chemical interactions, allowing them to absorb and dissipate energy efficiently under
dynamic stress. Drawing inspiration from nature, where resilient mechanisms have evolved over time,
polymeric elastomers must be meticulously engineered to maintain strength, flexibility, and the ability to
self-heal after damage. The unique properties of these materials, including their ability to autonomously
repair and their outstanding vibration-damping performance, make them ideal for applications in critical
sectors such as defense, automotive, aerospace, construction, and electronics.
The development of high-performance polymeric elastomers is crucial for enhancing the durability and
reliability of products exposed to extreme conditions. Their remarkable impact resistance, coupled with
energy absorption and dissipation capabilities, opens up possibilities for shock-absorbing packaging,
protective coatings, and energy storage systems. Moreover, these elastomers’ ability to self-heal
autonomously under ambient conditions ensures long-term functionality and reduced maintenance costs,
positioning them as an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional materials. As industries
continue to demand more sustainable and efficient solutions, the need for polymeric elastomers with
tunable properties becomes ever more pressing. Future innovations in this field must focus on optimizing
materials for scalability, cost-efficiency, and performance. These elastomers hold the potential to provide
versatile, high-performance solutions that not only improve product longevity but also reduce
environmental impact, making them a cornerstone for next-generation engineering and manufacturing
technologies.
A research team at the Department of Chemistry, IIT Bhilai, comprising Swarup Maity, Nishikanta Singh,
and Dr. Sanjib Banerjee, has developed smart materials for unbreakable and soundproofing devices.
These materials are synthesized using a simple, cost-effective, and industry-friendly process. The
innovative material demonstrates exceptional impact resistance, energy dissipation, and self-healing
properties, making it suitable for a wide range of applications, including but not limited to its use in the
construction of unbreakable and soundproofing devices. This work has been published in Chemical
Engineering Journal, a leading journal in the field. The research is supported by SERB, Govt. of India
and IIT Bhilai.
