Nissan applies scratch resistant auto paint to self-healing iPhone case


Nissan this week announced a prototype iPhone 4/4S case that promises to repair itself from scratches. Plastic cases eventually get scratched up losing its luster, but the primary function of a case is to absorb some abuse. Most people either just live with the blemishes or eventually swap it out for a new case. Nissan's concept promises to keep cases looking new.

The "self-healing" system is supposed to mend minor scratches within hours and deeper scratches in up to a week.

The outer 'paint' is made from polyrotaxane, which means that when damage occurs to the coating in the form of a fine scratch, the chemical structure is able to react to change back to its original shape and fill the gap - 'healing' the blemish.


The technology is currently used on the Nissan Murano, 370Z, and X-Trail and its line of Infinity cars. The company produced a limited run of prototype cases and says if there is demand it will bring the product to market later this year.