New "Smart material " that can respond dynamically to its environment

Researchers have developed new material by combining the graphene oxide with the hydrogels made
from a natural material seaweed-derived alginate. This new Smart Material is durable and can respond dynamically with its environment used in a variety of biomedical applications.
One Limitation in the use of alginate hydrogels is that they tend to fall apart under mechanical load or in low salt solutions.
The research shows that under the chemical treatments this smart material is capable of becoming more stiffer or softer. It means that this new smart material is able to react to its surroundings. In addition, the alginate-GO retains alginate the ability to repel oils, giving the new material potential as a sturdy antifouling coating.