We propose a timeline classifying self-healing polymers in generations based on the healing mechanism, and correlated with historical development.

The development of self-healing rubbers is currently under investigation as a strategy to promote their reuse and, hence, reduce their waste. However, autonomous, multicycle self-healing rubbers with good mechanical properties have so far proven difficult to achieve. Here, mechanically robust composites based on epoxidized natural rubber (ENR) and thermally reduced graphene oxide (TRGO) were successfully designed and prepared with a high healing efficiency of up to 85% at room temperature without applying external stimuli. The incorporation of TRGO not only improves the mechanical performance in more than 100% in relation to pristine ENR but also promotes the hydrogen bonding interactions with the rubber. This leads to a homogenous dispersion of TRGO within the ENR matrix, which further increases its self-healing capability.

An important characteristic of silicone elastomers is their ability to maintain their properties over a wide temperature range. This results from the Si─O bond's high flexibility and thermal stability, causing a very low glass transition temperature (Tg) and a high degradation temperature (Td), respectively. However, other thermal transitions, such as crystallization (Tc), cold crystallization (Tcc), and melting (Tm), must also be considered to ensure the elastomers’ optimal performance and use. This study addresses the misconceptions surrounding the assignment of these transition temperatures for the most prevalent type of silicone elastomer, namely polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) elastomers. The article focuses on rectifying these misunderstandings, particularly in the context of high‐tech applications, including aerospace, automotive, coatings, and soft robotics. A diverse range of 15 types of silicones are meticulously analyzed, including elastomers, adhesives, and oils, using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). This study highlights these transition temperatures’ role in shaping silicone elastomers’ thermomechanical behavior and their significance for effective utilization in advanced applications.

Mechanically strong, self-healing and recyclable rubber-based ionic elastomers for soft robotics hand.