Cellulose-based electroactive hydrogels for seaweed mimicking toward hybrid artificial habitats creation

We present the synthesis and the characterization of a novel cellulose-based electroactive hydrogel obtained through a simple water-based process. Its swelling and electroactive properties are here studied especially in low salinity water solutions. By combining smart materials and three-dimensional printing technique, we assessed that hydrogels can be shaped as natural algae and their motion can be controlled with electric signals to mimic natural seaweed movements under the effect of water flow. This could constitute a first step toward the development of hybrid habitats where artificial smart algae could cohabit with real living organisms or microorganisms.