Researchers have developed a shape-memory rubber that may enable applications as diverse as biomedical implants, conformal face-masks, self-sealing sutures, and “smart” labels.

The material, developed by University of Rochester researchers, forms a new class of shape-memory polymers. Unlike conventional shape-memory polymers, the new material is transparent, rubbery, and engineers will be able to control the speed at which it returns to its original shape.