A groundbreaking adhesive gel, described as soft and pliable yet robustly water-resistant, has been developed by an international research team involving Hokkaido University and Shenzhen University. This gel, capable of adhering powerfully underwater and being applied and removed over 200 times, incorporates natural materials sourced from creatures like barnacles. The innovation lies in the collaboration of nature-inspired substances and artificial intelligence, aimed at creating new materials for applications in fields such as medical technology and marine engineering.

Traditionally, soft adhesive gels have struggled with efficacy in aquatic environments, losing their adhesive strength when wet or underwater. Additionally, the complex structure of the gel’s molecular composition posed significant challenges, complicating material design based on evolving data science techniques. To address these limitations, a team led by Professor Gun Chen-Ping from Hokkaido University honed in on a dual approach that synergizes natural properties with AI-driven data science.

In their research, the team conducted a comprehensive analysis of approximately 25,000 types of adhesive proteins produced by various organisms living in aquatic environments, such as barnacles, mussels, and other localized flora and fauna. By synthesizing 180 different samples of polymers derived from these natural substances, they aimed to create a material that is easier to manufacture, process, and maintain. This meticulous research exemplifies the potential of combining biology with technology to innovate new materials that meet specific engineering needs.