Drive Past the Body Shop: Sun Will Repair Scratches

New self-healing coating will save you money, time
By Wesley Oliver,  Newser Staff
Posted Mar 13, 2009 12:30 PM CDT
Drive Past the Body Shop: Sun Will Repair Scratches
Researchers have created a polyurethane coating that heals itself when exposed to ultraviolet light, Wired says.   (Shutter Stock)

The sun will soon be able to help repair the scratches on everything from iPods to cars. Researchers have developed a polyurethane coating that heals itself when exposed to UV radiation, Wired reports. The coating, which should be available in a few months, could save consumers money and reduce waste by minimizing upkeep. “It’s very economical,” said a researcher.

“It could coat anything that can be scratched—electronics, aircraft, cars, you name it," his colleague added. The coating works in all climates but can only repair itself once. Hitting the same place is twice is unlikely, the scientists reasoned. “Your car would last for a long time, and it would look new for a long time,” one said.
(More consumer spending stories.)

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