Nano-reinforced self-healing rubbers: A comprehensive review

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in self-healing rubbers due to their ability to repair mechanical damage autonomously. This capability is achieved by incorporating reversible dynamic cross-linked networks within the rubber matrix. Technological and scientific advancements have led to the development of nano-reinforced self-healing rubbers, focusing on enhancing mechanical strength while maintaining high self-healing efficiency and low dependence on external stimuli. This review discusses the latest progress in utilizing various nanofillers, including carbon-based, bio-based, hybrids, and other variants, to reinforce rubber matrices and improve self-healing properties. The review covers nanofiller characteristics, mechanical properties, and surface modification techniques. Favorable interactions between host matrices and fillers are highlighted, along with reinforcing theories and mechanisms. The sustainability aspects of these materials are also addressed, and their potential applications in cleaner production and sustainable manufacturing are explored, offering insights into the future prospects of nano-reinforced self-healing rubbers on a larger scale.