ABSTRACT
Due to its mineral resources, the deep sea is becoming increasingly important for supplying the world’s population. However, exploration and production of these raw materials require the availability of market-ready, i.e. reliable, efficient and environmentally friendly underwater systems. The enormously high pressures and low temperatures in the deep sea, as well as the gradient of these parameters between the water surface and the seabed and the high salinity of the seawater place extreme demands on the underwater systems. Sufficient strength and tightness as well as corrosion resistance and mechanical and electrical long-term stability are only some of the requirements. The authors have been experimenting for some time both with 3D-printed titanium shell structures to be used as pressure hulls and with soft silicones as the basis for high-performance pressure-neutral sealing systems. Results of these investigations are presented and are discussed with regard to opportunities and limitations.
