Advances in Self-Healable and 3D Printable Biobased Elastomers

Abstract

Bio-based elastomers are emerging as sustainable alternatives to conventional elastomers, driven by advancements in self-healing, three-dimensional (3D) printability, and processability. Derived from renewable resources, these materials align with global sustainability goals while offering unique functionalities that extend their lifespan and enable the precise fabrication of complex structures. Recent research has focused on intrinsic and extrinsic self-healing mechanisms, significantly enhancing the autonomous repair capabilities of these materials. Additionally, progress in 3D printing technologies has transformed the design and manufacturing of bio-based elastomers, opening new avenues for smart applications across various industries. This comprehensive review highlights and integrates the interplay between self-healing, 3D printability, and processability in bio-based elastomers. It addresses this gap by providing critical insights into their environmental and economic implications. Furthermore, it identifies unresolved challenges, such as scalability and performance optimization, and proposes future research directions to advance the field. By bridging these aspects, this review offers a fresh perspective on developing bio-based self-healing elastomers and their transformative potential for 3D printing applications.