South Korea has developed a smart road that can repair its own cracks and potholes just by using sunlight. This new road uses a special asphalt mix filled with tiny nano-microcapsules. When the sun’s UV rays heat the road, these tiny capsules break open and release a polymer-oil solution that fills the cracks and holes on its own.
What makes this road even more impressive is that it can fix itself in cold weather too. Small cracks or potholes can be repaired in about 45 minutes after being warmed by sunlight. Built-in sensors under the road keep an eye on its condition. If they find any damage, they can either send an alert or start the repair process automatically without any workers needed.
Tests show this new technology can cut road maintenance costs by about 60%. Because of this, South Korea is now testing the self-healing road on airport runways, military roads, and other high-traffic areas that often get damaged.
Experts think this smart road could change the future of road repairs. In a few years, workers might not need to fill potholes by hand anymore, which could save time and money and keep traffic flowing more smoothly.
If all goes well, experts say self-repairing roads could become common within five years. Drivers would have safer and smoother rides, and governments could spend less money on constant roadwork. This smart idea could solve one of the biggest problems drivers face today.
