Technical 16 www.aftermarketonline.net MAY 2025 How innovation can help give bodyshops the ‘healing touch’ Dr Conor O’Brien, senior technology analyst at IDTechEx, on how the automotive sector can steer ‘self-healing’ materials toward commercialisation Self-healing materials, capable of repairing physical damage, present a significant opportunity for disruptive innovation in materials science, improving longevity and reliability. The automotive industry is of particular interest, with a high degree of importance placed on maintaining the appearance of vehicles, while rapid self-healing tyres prevent punctures from interrupting journeys. The automotive sector offers a clear route to market for this emerging family of next-generation materials. IDTechEx’s new study, ‘Self-healing materials 2025-2035: technologies, applications, and players’, provides a comprehensive assessment of the market, including analysis of technological progress, growth opportunities, and commercial readiness levels. It offers a thirdparty, unbiased opinion and outlook for the market. The automotive industry is often an early adopter of luxury products, where both the increased performance and convenience are selling points to consumers. Self-healing materials can be used in a range of automotive applications, including tyres, paints, and coatings. Use cases even extend to asphalt road surfaces, where damage can lead to issues for vehicles and drivers. Self-healing tyres Punctures are a frequent issue for drivers, and incorporating self-healing capabilities to repair them could offer several environmental benefits, such as extending tire lifespan and reducing the need for replacements. Eliminating the necessity Auto sector offers clear route to market for emerging family of next-gen materials
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