Scientists at Flinders University in Australia have tested innovative materials that could be used to make shark-resistant wetsuits and surfwear.
Although these suits do not prevent internal injuries and crushing, they significantly reduce the severity of penetrating wounds and bleeding and can save the lives of swimmers and surfers.
Researchers see this achievement as a key step in increasing the safety of maritime activities for coastal communities and the tourism industry.
The researchers attracted sharks using bait and then exposed them to teeth-biting foam sheets coated with the substance.
Unlike the old metal models, which were heavy and inflexible, these new materials are much lighter and more flexible and are made from ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fibers, similar to the material used in nautical ropes.
The results showed that these materials reduced serious injuries (C3) and (C4) by 60% and minimized bleeding and tissue loss.
