A team at Tufts University developed a coating that changes colour where it is struck. The coating contains tiny round particles with a colour-changing polymer inside a protective silk protein shell.
When the surface is hit, the inner polymer changes from deep blue to bright red. The silk shell reduces false triggers and can be adjusted to respond to different force levels. The colour change remains and creates a permanent map of impacts.
The paint can be brushed, sprayed or drop cast onto paper, plastic, wood, metal and curved or flexible objects. Because it needs no electronics it is light, cheap and simple to scale. Possible uses include helmets for concussion monitoring, tracking package handling and insoles for gait analysis.
Difficult words
- coating — A thin layer put on a surfaceThe paint
- polymer — A large material made of many small molecules
- shell — An outer layer that protects something inside
- impact — A hit or force on a surfaceimpacts
- permanent — Lasting a long time; not easily changed
- concussion — A brain injury caused by a strong blow
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Would you use this paint on a helmet or a package? Why?
- How could a permanent map of impacts help people?
- Which objects where you live could be painted with this coating?
Related articles
Molecule stores sunlight and releases heat on demand
Chemists at UC Santa Barbara designed a modified molecule called pyrimidone that captures sunlight, stores it in chemical bonds and releases it as heat when triggered. Tests released enough heat to boil water under normal conditions.
New ultrasound method improves diagnosis of breast masses
Researchers developed a new ultrasound signal-processing method that distinguishes fluid cysts from solid breast masses. In initial patient tests doctors identified masses correctly far more often than with conventional ultrasound, which could reduce biopsies and follow-ups.
