Researchers at City University of Hong Kong have successfully replicated a sensing ability found in sea urchin spines, using 3D printing to create smart materials that detect water movement without batteries or external power.
The team, led by Professor Lu Jian, discovered that sea urchin spines contain a gradient porous structure that generates electrical signals when water flows across it. They then used this natural design as a blueprint for artificial materials with similar capabilities.
The key lies in mimicking the spine’s internal architecture. Sea urchin spines have interconnected pores that gradually change size from base to tip, with smaller pores concentrated at the top. This gradient structure creates electrical charges when water moves through it.
Using vat photopolymerization 3D printing, the researchers fabricated artificial versions of this structure in both polymer and ceramic materials. The biomimetic designs performed significantly better than uniform structures, producing three times more voltage and eight times stronger signals.
The results prove that the sensing ability depends on structural design rather than what the material is made from. Any material printed with this gradient pore pattern can generate electrical signals from flowing water.
Building on this principle, the team created a prototype device with multiple gradient units arranged together. This biomimetic sensor can detect the direction and strength of underwater currents in real time, all without requiring sensors or power supplies.
“Through biomimetic structural design and 3D printing, we have successfully translated nature’s wisdom into smart materials,” Professor Lu said. He explained that the goal is to extend nature’s integrated design approach into engineered systems.
The research opens practical applications for marine monitoring, underwater exploration, and water resource management. The biomimetic materials could also find uses in energy storage, medical devices, and aerospace engineering.
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