Shark Bite-Resistant Wetsuit. © Flinders University
A new shark bite-resistant wetsuit could protect surfers from white shark and tiger shark bites.
While shark attacks on people are rare, they can seriously affect coastal communities and local businesses, often leading to pressure for better safety measures. Wetsuits made with bite-resistant materials are a new way to reduce the risk of fatalities by lessening the severity of injuries such as cuts, punctures, and blood loss.
In the 1970s, divers used chainmail suits for protection, but these were too heavy and rigid for activities like surfing. Newer wetsuits now use lightweight, puncture-resistant fabrics such as Kevlar and ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene. These materials are more flexible while still helping reduce cuts and abrasions.
Shark bite-resistant material. © Flinders University
Although these wetsuits are available to the public, questions remain about their effectiveness against bites from large, powerful sharks.
source CSIRO Publishing
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