Vladimir Vlad has patented in the US a wetsuit that takes advantage of the fact that sharks have sensitive receptors in their snouts which detect electrical fields in the water. This helps them track prey, but if the field is too powerful the shark backs off.

The suit has thin piezoelectric ceramic fibres woven into its fabric. The fibres extend along the body, connecting to metal electrodes which harvest any charge generated when the piezo material is deformed by the wearer’s movement.

During normal swimming, the suit generates several volts which flow through the water between the electrodes to create a deterrent field. If the diver sees a shark a natural reaction, one suspects – the suit generates much higher voltages and stronger fields.

If the shark still fails to get the message and bites the suit, it gets a shock in the mouth and gives up its prey.

Via New Scientist.