Photocuring 3D printable self-healing polymers

Three-dimensional printing (3DP) technology has emerged as a rapidly growing and revolutionary manufacturing method. Among the various 3DP techniques, photocuring 3DP (P3DP) has gained a significant market share due to its longest development history and maturity. P3DP can meet the demand for complex part structures with high precision. However, in the realm of P3DP, the need for extended service life and stable performance of printed components is continued to rise. To address these challenges, the integration of P3DP polymers with self-healing properties has become crucial. This review focuses on a recent process in developing self-healing polymers for P3DP. This article provides an overview of different P3DP technologies and their capabilities. The formation mechanisms, self-healing effects, and preparations of various self-healing polymers recently employed in P3DP are presented. Furthermore, the emerging applications of P3DP self-healing polymers, such as electronic sensors, biomedical engineering , and smart material for soft actuators and robotics, are highlighted. The limitations and challenges associated inherent in combining self-healing polymers and P3DP technology are discussed, along with the future research prospects in this field. Incorporating self-healing properties into photocuring 3D-printed objects makes it possible to enhance their durability, prolong their lifespan, and improve their overall performance. The fusion of self-restoration mechanisms and P3DP technology holds great promise for advancing novel materials and functionalization in various industries.