Self-healing electronic skin for underwater robots and divers
Researchers have developed a self-healing magnetoelectric sensory system (SMES) that provides touch and proximity sensing, damage detection, and autonomous repair for underwater electronics.
Operating in harsh underwater environments presents significant challenges for electronic devices. Conventional sensors used by divers and underwater robots are often fragile, require external power, and cannot be repaired in situ when damaged, leading to reduced operational life and safety concerns. A team at the National University of Singapore (NUS) has created a novel self-healing magnetoelectric sensory system (SMES) designed to overcome these limitations.
The SMES technology, inspired by biological skin, integrates self-powered touch and proximity sensing with built-in damage detection and autonomous repair capabilities, functioning effectively in both air and water. The system is constructed from a stretchable, self-healing elastomer embedded with liquid-metal conductors, layered to include a top damage-sensing layer above an electromagnetic sensing layer.
When the sensor sustains damage, such as punctures or cuts, its electrical resistance increases, signaling injury. The reversible molecular interactions within the elastomer allow the material to self-repair when damaged surfaces are brought back into contact. Minor damage can be healed within seconds, while more severe damage requires brief mechanical pressure followed by a longer healing period to regain full functionality.
Prototypes of the SMES have been demonstrated in a smart diving glove capable of wireless communication via hand gestures and in a robotic hand designed for underwater object manipulation with real-time damage monitoring and recovery. The self-healing elastomer exhibits up to 92% elastic recovery and achieves significant healing efficiency, particularly underwater, where it can reach nearly 100% healing within 10 days.
The SMES is self-powered, utilizing electromagnetic induction generated by the movement of a small magnet relative to a liquid-metal coil. This eliminates the need for an external power source, a crucial advantage for underwater applications. The sensor boasts a rapid response time of approximately 41 milliseconds and has demonstrated stability over 10,000 cycles, indicating its suitability for repeated use in demanding conditions.
This development is significant for underwater robotics and wearable technology, addressing critical needs for durability and autonomy. The self-healing and self-powered aspects of the SMES reduce reliance on external power and maintenance, enhancing operational reliability and safety in challenging aquatic environments. This aligns with the broader trend in additive manufacturing towards creating more robust, functional, and self-sufficient components for extreme applications, including potential use in space exploration.
Edited by the news editor with AI from the original report — please refer to the original source.