This file photo, taken Dec. 21, 2021, shows container ships being loaded with cargo at a port in South Korea’s largest port city of Busan. (Yonhap)
POHANG, July 19 (Korea Bizwire) — A research team from Pohang University of Science and Technology has announced the development of new technology that can enhance vessel fuel efficiency and reduce underwater frictional resistance by utilizing the mucus properties found in marine animals.
The team drew inspiration from the mucus gland structure of marine animals and devised a method involving dissolving polystyrene in chloroform, which was then applied to an aluminum plate.
Subsequently, the vapor in the surroundings condensed into droplets on the liquid surface before evaporating.
Consequently, the evaporation process resulted in the formation of regularly arranged micrometer-sized water droplet-shaped holes on the surface.
To achieve a low-friction surface resembling marine animal skin, the research team filled these holes with lubricants, creating a slimy texture.
When compared to a standard aluminum surface, a surface treated with this technology exhibited a reduction in friction of up to 39 percent. This reduction in friction ensures that ships can maintain long-term performance.
Kevin Lee (kevinlee@koreabizwire.com)
