New plastic turns red under pressure

Scientists have created a new type of plastic that turns red when it's stretched or bent. Their work's still at an experimental stage, but it could lead to plastics that change colour when they're about to break.

Integrated into bridges, aeroplane wings, or climbing ropes, it's not difficult to see how plastic with a built-in warning system would save many lives.

What other uses are there for this fantastic plastic?

Image: D. Stevenson, A. Jerez, A. Hamilton and D. Davis