Embodiments of a self-healing product comprise a shape memory component and a healing component interpenetrating the shape memory component to form a fibrous microstructure. This micro-structure facilitates healing/mending mechanisms, wherein the healing component is selected to diffuse into a defect when the area of the product with the defect is subject to a treatment. This treatment can vary with the temperatures in one example being at or above a melting temperature (Tm) and/or a glass transition temperature (Tg) for one or both of the shape memory component and the healing component. The self-healing product can also comprise a substrate so that deposition of one or more of the shape memory component and the healing component onto the substrate can form a coating or material layer the likes of which can protect the subjacent substrate while also providing the healing properties responsive to the treatment.
