Microscopic damage indicator

Phys.Org (Jan. 14) -- Damage developing in a material can be difficult to see until something breaks or fails. A new polymer damage indication system automatically highlights areas that are cracked, scratched or stressed, allowing engineers to address problem areas before they become more problematic. The early warning system development--particularly useful in applications like petroleum pipelines, air and space transport, and automobiles--was led by University of Illinois materials science and engineering professor Nancy Sottos and aerospace engineering professor Scott White, who have pioneered self-healing materials technology. Also: ScienceBlog (Jan. 13), Gizmag (Jan. 15), Gizmodo Australia (Jan. 18).