High-Performance Hydrogel Skins for Bioinspired Robotic Fish in Extreme Ocean Environments

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Robotics
• Biomimetics

Background:

• Ocean exploration requires advanced materials capable of withstanding extreme conditions.
• Current materials often lack the necessary durability, environmental resilience, and multifunctionality for deep-sea applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a robust, multifunctional hydrogel for bioinspired robotic fish skins.
• To enhance the performance and durability of marine robotics operating in harsh environments.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of poly(vinyl alcohol) hydrogel (PVA-H) using universal solvent-induced crystallization.
• Incorporation of ionic compounds for conductivity and antifreezing properties.
• Integration of ice templating for scalable fabrication of biomimetic skins.

Main Results:

• Achieved exceptional mechanical strength (compressive strength up to 2.6 MPa, tensile strain >450%) and optical transparency (>80%).
• Demonstrated environmental resilience to extreme pH, seawater, and high salinity.
• Exhibited efficient recyclability (>90%), biocompatibility (<1.5% hemolysis), underwater conductivity, antifreezing properties (-20 °C), and antifouling capabilities (>70% protein adsorption inhibition).

Conclusions:

• The developed PVA-H offers a versatile platform for durable, eco-adaptive marine robotics.
• This material is suitable for applications in chemically, thermally, and biologically hostile underwater environments.
• The fabrication method allows for scalable production of biomimetic robotic skins.