Researchers have created an undersea vehicle inspired by the common jellyfish that runs on renewable energy and could be used in ocean rescue and surveillance missions. The robotic jellyfish feeds off hydrogen and oxygen gases found in water, using carbon nanotubes. “Our underwater robot doesn’t need batteries or electricity,” said Dr. Yonas Tadesse, assistant professor at UT Dallas and lead author of the study. “The only waste released as it travels is more water.” Energy is generated using a combination of high-tech materials, including artificial muscles that contract when heated. These muscles are made of a nickel-titanium alloy wrapped in carbon nanotubes, coated with platinum and housed in a pipe. As the mixture of hydrogen and oxygen encounters the platinum, heat and water vapor are created. That heat causes a contraction that moves the muscles of the device, pumping out the water and starting the cycle again.
http://www.benchmarkemail.com/c/l?u=D66321&e=17858B&c=11648&t=0&l=509EF52&email=oJqIf2KjWXmHq8wmEETBqdepgErh9aFv