Swiss startup unveils self‑repairing polymer Archemid for industrial coatings

A technology spin‑out from ETH Zurich, Archemides AG, has introduced a new class of polymer called Archemid that can autonomously seal scratches, cracks and corrosion. The material repairs itself when exposed to heat or light, flowing into damaged areas without the need for added chemicals. Archemid contains no PFAS or chromium and is fully recyclable.

The polymer also features integrated fluorescence, causing microscopic defects to glow in the dark and alert users to damage. Its potential applications span construction, electronics, mobility, consumer products and aerospace. CEO and co‑founder Marco D’Elia described the innovation as a sustainable alternative to conventional industrial coatings.

Archemid has been patented in collaboration with ETH Zurich and is positioned to extend the service life of industrial materials while reducing environmental impact.