Observing nature’s intricate designs can inspire new building materials and energy-efficient systems. Examples include insulation based on sharkskin, which reduces water resistance; and the Eastgate Centre’s adaptive facade, which mimics termite mound ventilation strategies to cool buildings and conserve energy.
Sometimes biomimetic solutions require existing materials — such as the hook-and-loop fastener Velcro, which was inspired by burdock burrs sticking to dogs’ fur. But other times, a whole new material is needed to fully realize an idea.
Biomimetic Materials
Using inspiration from nature to revolutionize materials engineering, biomimetic materials are developing quickly and offer wide-ranging benefits. They enhance structural design, create self-healing materials, and improve performance. They are also environmentally friendly. For example, a building designed to mimic termite mounds uses passive cooling techniques to lower energy consumption and maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. In addition, a lightweight material inspired by the composition of seashells reduces fuel consumption and emissions in airplanes and automobiles.
Moreover, biomimetic materials can be fabricated in a variety of ways. They can be crafted through freeze casting, layer-by-layer deposition, spray deposition, magnetically assisted slip casting, and cholesteric self-assembly. Furthermore, they can be incorporated with biological receptors to form plasmonic biosensors. For instance, Manoharan et al. developed a biomimetic sensor based on an octadecyl trichlorosilane-modified nanoparticle (NP) surface with a lipopolysaccharides-conjugated antimicrobial polymyxin B-conjugated AuNPs sandwich, which allowed for the real-time monitoring of LPS molecules’ binding to NPs.
Elastic tissues like the meniscus, tendon, and ligament have poor vascularity and are difficult to regenerate after injury. To overcome this problem, researchers have been working to engineer biomimetic materials that are similar in structure to these tissues. These biomimetic materials could potentially provide effective and safe replacements for current surgical procedures, resulting in significant cost savings and improved patient outcomes. In addition, these materials could help improve the biocompatibility of medical devices and decrease the risk of infection and graft failure.
Biomimetic Architecture
Biomimetic architecture is a new multi-disciplinary scientific approach to sustainable construction. It studies natural models and emulates their forms, processes, and systems to solve human problems — sustainably. The result is buildings that are more energy efficient, resilient, and adaptable to change.
Perhaps the most recognizable example is the honeycomb structures found in insect hives and buildings. These interlocking hexagonal shapes are not only incredibly strong, but also very light and crash resistant. They also allow for much more surface area to dissipate heat, keeping the hive or building cool. Engineers have taken inspiration from this shape to create soft-robotics, micro-electromechanics, and more.
Another example is the Eden Project in Cornwall, England. Designed by Grimshaw Architects, it is made from a series of geodesic domes inspired by soap bubbles and pollen grains. The spherical shapes are built from ETFE (Ethylene Tetrafluoroethylene), which is both lightweight and highly insulating. These features reduce the overall energy use of the structure by 50%.
Other examples of biomimetic architecture include the Qatar Cactus Building, a design by Aesthetics Architects that draws inspiration from the way cacti survive in a desert environment. This building incorporates sun shades that open and close in response to the climate, allowing for maximum ventilation while reducing energy use. It is also flexible, allowing it to adapt to shifting weather conditions without breaking or collapsing.
Biomimetic Engineering
Structural engineers design a range of structures, from homes to commercial skyscrapers. These structures must be durable, adaptable, and able to sustain their function and integrity over time. Taking a lesson from nature can help them do just that. Engineers can use biomimicry to develop self-optimizing systems, such as the natural cellulose in trees, that automatically adjust to changing conditions.
However, the level of understanding of biomimetic architecture and engineering among architects, designers, and civil engineers varies. A study conducted by researchers found that a significant number of engineers have an insufficient understanding of how biomimetic architecture and engineering could benefit their projects. This gap is partly due to the fact that the field of biomimetic engineering is relatively new, and the knowledge base is still evolving.
Nevertheless, the potential of biomimetic engineering to improve construction and reduce its environmental impact is limitless. The use of biomimetic principles can be applied to all stages of the construction process, from planning and design to building operation and maintenance. For example, a green brick manufacturer named bioMASON grows its own clay in greenhouse-like conditions, avoiding the need for firing in kilns. It also applies a similar principle to its concrete mix by using a blend of recycled and locally sourced aggregates inspired by the cellular makeup of lava stones.
Biomimetic Technology
When structural engineers design buildings, they look to nature for inspiration. In fact, they have been using natural structures as models for their work since ancient times. For instance, beavers build dams by piling up branches and trunks to create a solid structure that can support their weight, divert and supply water for human activities, prevent floods, and stabilize the surrounding water. These innovative building techniques are now being used to construct contemporary buildings.
To apply these concepts to engineering design, scientists must first understand how biological systems function. This knowledge will help them develop new materials with better performance. This approach is known as biomimetic technology. There are two approaches to this type of research: the bottom-up approach and the top-down approach.
Biomimetic nanoceramics can be produced by a variety of methods. These include repeated coagulation of Al2O3 NPs with ferrofluid in the presence of a magnetic field followed by sintering, nanoscopic deposition of non-stoichiometric silicon nitride on both sides of a wafer using low-pressure chemical vapor deposition, self-assembly of a chitosan/maleic acid matrix with genipin and monetite mineralization, and sintering of a layered alumina-chitosan-maesium matrix with genipin addition. These materials have been applied to bone tissue engineering, where they offer a high degree of mechanical strength.
Another application of biomimetic technology is the development of responsive envelopes for buildings. These systems allow buildings to adapt to their environment and reduce energy consumption and environmental impact. The key to this approach is understanding how biological systems respond to their surroundings and developing materials that replicate these processes.