Intrinsic Self-Healing Polymers: Research Progress, Application Direction, and Prospects

Inspired by natural biological systems, the integration of biomimetic principles into polymer design has markedly improved material performance and durability, thereby opening new pathways for sustainable development. This paper reviews recent advances in intrinsic self-healing polymeric materials, focusing on their inherent self-healing mechanisms. These polymers function through polymer chain diffusion and reversible bonding, enabling multiple self-healing cycles while eliminating the dependency on external healing agents. A comprehensive analysis of existing intrinsic self-healing mechanisms is presented, encompassing examples ranging from reversible covalent to non-covalent interactions. Recent studies suggest that the synergistic integration of multiple mechanisms imparts these materials with enhanced toughness and superior self-healing capabilities. A critical summary and comparative evaluation of recent studies are also provided. Furthermore, the practical applications of intrinsic self-healing polymers across diverse domains are reviewed, with particular emphasis on their current usage and potential value. Finally, prospective development directions and emerging applications of intrinsic self-healing polymers are discussed. This work aims to serve as a reference for researchers striving to advance the design, functionality, and application of intrinsic self-healing polymer technologies.