Researchers at Texas A&M University, led by Dr. Mohammad Naraghi in collaboration with The University of Tulsa, have developed a groundbreaking carbon-fiber smart plastic—Aromatic Thermosetting Copolyester (ATSP)—that is recyclable, ultra-strong, self-healing, and capable of shape recovery, tells Tech Xplore. Reinforced with carbon fibers, ATSP achieves a strength several times that of steel while remaining lighter than aluminum, and retains the robust chemical stability of thermosets combined with the flexibility of thermoplastics.
ATSP’s “smart” behavior stems from its vitrimer-like chemistry, where dynamic covalent bond exchanges enable both shape memory and self-healing. Under thermal activation—around 160°C to vitrification temperatures—the material can autonomously repair cracks and restore its original form, similar to how skin heals.
In rigorous testing, ATSP samples underwent cyclical tensile and bending fatigue followed by thermal healing. After just two cycles, the material nearly regained full strength; by the fifth cycle, healing efficiency remained high at about 80%, with no chemical degradation detected. X-ray imaging confirmed the composite retained its original structure even after repeated damage-healing cycles.
Applications across aerospace, defense, and automotive sectors stand to benefit significantly. In aviation, ATSP could enable on-demand healing of stressed components; in vehicles, it may enable deformation recovery post-collision—enhancing safety, reducing maintenance, and supporting environmental sustainability through recyclability.