Core Insights - Researchers from the Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, have developed a superlubricating polymer gel material inspired by the continuous lubrication mechanism of earthworms [1] - The research paper was published in "Nature Communications," highlighting the innovative approach to creating biomimetic multi-level structured superlubricating polymer gel materials [1] Material Development - The material was created using strategies such as controllable chemical etching, in-situ wrinkling, laser microfabrication, and balanced swelling of closed pores [1] - It exhibits an ultra-low friction coefficient and stable, long-lasting superlubrication lifespan under high contact pressure conditions, with no surface wear [1] Performance Characteristics - This polymer gel-based superlubricating material has the highest reported load-bearing capacity at the macro scale [1] - In quasi-wet testing conditions, the material can achieve considerable sustained lubrication with limited lubricant supply [1] Mechanisms of Superlubrication - The robust and durable superlubrication behavior is attributed to factors such as hydration effects at the sliding interface, electrostatic repulsion, mechanical matching of the lubricating layer and load-bearing phase, and the self-pumping characteristics of the lubricant during friction [1] Practical Applications - The researchers built a load-friction mechanical drive testing system to visually demonstrate the mechanical robustness and reliable superlubrication behavior of the material [1] - This research provides theoretical guidance for the development of water-based superlubricating moving parts and medical devices [1]